A Multiple-Case Study: Online Doctoral Mentor and Candidate Interactions

• In Event: Challenges and Opportunities With Online, Distance, and Virtual Education

Abstract

High attrition rates in doctoral programs is a growing concern. A doctoral journey is a unique educational experience; research has shown that 40-60% of doctoral candidates never graduate (Cochran, Campbell, Baker, & Leeds, 2014; Council of Graduate Schools, 2008). The topic of doctoral attrition in distance education is becoming increasingly important as more students are choosing online programs (Cross, 2014; Rockinson-Szapkiw, 2011). Additionally, attrition rates for distance-based online programs can be as much as 10-20% higher than traditional doctoral programs (Carr, 2000; Terrell, 2005b). Doctoral persistence during the dissertation phase requires a positive relationship with the doctoral mentor that promotes both mutual respect and trust (Rademaker, O’Connor Duffy, Wetzler, & Zaikina-Montgomery, 2016; Reedy & Taylor-Dunlop, 2015).

Authors

• Maria Theresa Spaulding, Liberty University

• Paul Carr, Regent University

• Lucinda S. Spaulding, University of Lynchburg

• Amanda J. Rockinson-Szapkiw, University of Memphis