An Exploratory Study of Online Doctoral Student Experiences

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 1:30 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 1
  In Roundtable Session: Issues and Solutions for Entering and Completing Doctoral Programs (Table 8)

Abstract

The availability of online education has been steadily increasing over the last several decades, with many institutions now offering fully online doctoral programs. This exploratory qualitative research study aims to uncover the factors influencing students' initial choice to pursue an online program and the factors influencing their experience as online doctoral students. Data were collected through both surveys and optional interviews. The data reveals that factors such as professional or personal goals, individual preferences and constraints, and programmatic trustworthiness impact decisions related to pursuing online programs. Meanwhile, factors such as personal skills, faculty accessibility, learning quality, work/life balance, and support networks influence their experience. This study offers insights into the experiences of working adults enrolled in online doctoral programs.

Authors

• Rita Detrick, Old Dominion University

• Brandon M. Butler, Old Dominion University