Educators who pursue doctoral degrees do so for many reasons. Whether they want to become professors, researchers, or leaders in their schools, they know that earning a doctoral degree will help them drive change and foster growth in their fields. A doctorate in education can lead to leadership positions in PreK-12, higher education, and even business, government, or nonprofit sectors. However, a PhD in education requires significant time and energy.
Teaching
Ph.D. students are expected to teach undergraduate and postgraduate courses, assist in developing a research program, advise and counsel undergraduate and postgraduate students, undertake academic and administrative duties, attend departmental meetings, present at professional conferences, and so on. Teaching is a big responsibility and requires sensitivity and a disciplined understanding of the learning process. It is also a time-consuming additional activity that researchers often wish to refrain from giving their undivided attention to their research objectives. However, some Ph.D. students who want to advance in their careers are not aiming to stand in front of a classroom but are looking for ways to improve the education system as a whole. An online PhD in education will give you the tools and the knowledge to create and implement strategies to help educational institutions and their student. A Ph.D. and an EdD can help you advance your career, but choosing the right degree is essential. A Ph.D. is research-oriented, while an EdD focuses more on applying your knowledge to real-world situations.
Time
The PhD is a long journey, and it’s standard to experience some setbacks. It’s also common for students to struggle with procrastination or lose motivation, especially when they are feeling overwhelmed or stuck. One way to overcome these challenges is to practice effective time management methods. For example, creating a master calendar that clearly outlines your tasks and deadlines can help you keep track of your workload. Another helpful tool is limiting distractions, such as putting your phone on silent or using a productivity app. Finally, regular pauses to engage in enjoyable activities or exercise can increase vitality and sharpen focus.
Another essential thing to remember is that it’s okay to say no to extra-curricular activities, like teaching undergraduates or becoming a student representative if they take up too much of your time and compromise your thesis writing progress. It’s also essential to prioritize self-care and recognize when it’s time to take some time off so that you can return to your Ph.D. with renewed energy and motivation. A PhD in education prepares you for research-based careers, and it’s ideal if you want to be a scholar on a topic of your choice. The career outlook is bright, with advanced leadership positions expected to grow 8 percent between 2020 and 2030.
Research
Getting a PhD in Education is a long-term investment, both financially and time-wise. But it also allows you to conduct research that can help solve a significant problem in the education field or even contribute to new tools that make a difference for students and teachers.
During your studies, you’ll have the chance to work closely with an expert advisor and fellow graduate students on projects exploring various issues within the education system. These could include everything from child development to classroom management. You may even have the chance to focus on a specific problem that you’re deeply passionate about, such as urban schooling, and use the research methods learned in your program to make real progress.
Most Ph.D. programs strongly emphasize research, so you’ll spend much time studying and writing about education-related subjects. Whether your dissertation explores the impact of technology on learning or looking at ways to improve educational outcomes, you’ll learn a wide range of skills applicable across many industries. An EdD, on the other hand, is more focused on applied research and solving professional problems in education.
Writing
While research is an essential component of earning a Ph.D., it’s also crucial to develop and publish your work. It is a critical step in establishing your professional expertise, which will ultimately help you advance your career. However, writing can be a challenge for many students. It’s true for students who come from non-native English-speaking backgrounds. The most common metaphor in this study relates to how writing for a Ph.D. is like trying to build a Jenga tower with limited blocks.
Another common challenge is feeling pressure to publish. While this is not unique to Ph.D. candidates, it is a critical aspect of the process that can be difficult for students. It’s true when family members need help understanding or supporting the PhD journey. One way to help mitigate this challenge is by finding healthy ways to decompress, such as through exercise, meditation, or the arts. Students need to contact their supervisors if they are experiencing difficulty. While this may not solve the problem completely, it will allow them to discuss their challenges in a safe and supportive environment. In addition, students should seek developmental networks and support from other PhD students, as these can be invaluable in helping them through challenging times.
