Evaluating the ACJS Doctoral Summit with Mixed Methods

• In Event: The ACJS Doctoral Summit–A Unique Approach to Professional Development

Abstract

The ACJS Doctoral Student Summit (DSS) is a unique model of professional development aimed at supporting doctoral students in degree completion, developing positive academic identities, and building strong academic networks. The current study documents the effectiveness and impact of the DSS using quantitative and qualitative survey data from several DSS cohorts. Students report higher confidence across several professional domains post-Summit, although there are several differences by identities. Qualitative data suggest that the DSS leads to three main areas of growth across various professional domains: new skills and/or perspectives, increased confidence, and creating connections.

Authors

• Monica Summers, California State University, Fresno

• Deeanna Button, Stockton University

• Courtney Porter, Marymount University

• Jared Dmello, Adelaide University

• Heather Pfeifer, University of Baltimore