A Program Evaluation of a Graduate Program's Development of Research Self-Efficacy in Doctoral Students

• In Event: Innovative Pedagogy Toward Greater Student Sense of Self-Efficacy in Graduate Research Education

Abstract

Research self-efficacy is defined as individual beliefs about one’s ability to conduct research, and it has been shown to increase degree completion and other research outcomes. This study presents a framework for developing research self-efficacy in graduate students and uses this framework to evaluate a doctoral program in educational leadership. The results showed that some research-based strategies for improving research self-efficacy were being implemented but that there was room for improvement. An improvement plan for the department and other implications for professors of educational research are discussed.

Authors

• Adam C. Elder, Southeastern Louisiana University

• Mindy L. Crain-Dorough, Southeastern Louisiana University