The process of engaging students in online education curriculum and instruction can be complicated and is often a daunting task. One must consider several elements, such as course content, sequencing, and the Cohort model. As well one must consider the Dissertation in practice, as well as synchronous vs. asynchronous teaching methods.
Synchronous vs. asynchronous instruction
Synchronous and asynchronous online EdD curricula and instruction have become increasingly common in higher education. The popularity of asynchronous learning can be attributed to its flexibility and the convenience of completing coursework on one’s own time. However, it is only for some. Some students may fear missing class time because they are not physically present. Likewise, synchronous classes are difficult for students living in different time zones. Achieving optimal results from online courses requires planning, organization, and preparation.
While there are advantages to both synchronous and asynchronous online EdD curricula and instruction, both approaches can be successful. It depends on the course and the instructor. For example, a synchronous process could be more energizing if it is done in a collaborative setting. This can be accomplished with video lectures, virtual class discussions, and presentations.
Course content and sequencing
Online EdD curriculum and instruction programs require student engagement in various aspects of the program. Whether conducting research, studying the effectiveness of educational policies, or improving student services, students are expected to participate in academic activities and participate in intellectual inquiry.
Students may choose to participate in a program that requires the completion of a dissertation or a doctoral capstone. The Dissertation is an intensive research project that can be used to investigate an education problem. A capstone is a scholarly project that represents the culmination of the knowledge and skills that a student has acquired in a program.
Most online programs use a combination of synchronous and asynchronous course components. With synchronous courses, students will attend virtual classroom meetings at a specified time each week. These meetings allow for interactions with instructors and fellow students. They also include discussion forums, voice-over PowerPoint presentations, and prerecorded lectures.
Cohort model
Many online EdD programs follow the cohort model. This is a good thing since it allows students to interact with peers. However, the cohort model can also limit students’ flexibility. For instance, some programs have only one beginning date per year, making it harder for students to pursue their degrees.
Some programs use a hybrid format, which combines synchronous and asynchronous elements of the program. The latter allows for more individualized learning.
One such program is the EdD, which emphasizes Higher Education at the University of Mississippi. It’s an excellent option for current college administrators or university presidents since the curriculum focuses on practitioner-based research.
An exciting aspect of this program is its focus on innovative leadership. To that end, the coursework is centered on real-world issues and challenges facing aspiring leaders in the 21st century. Students are encouraged to interact with other aspiring leaders to develop their leadership practice.
Dissertation in practice
In practice, a dissertation is a graduate degree program in which students choose a research question, gather data, and write a paper on that topic. Usually, this involves a quantitative and qualitative methodology.
A dissertation in practice differs from a traditional Ph.D. dissertation in that the focus is on applying research to an educational problem in practice. For example, the topic could be how to improve education quality in the United States.
A committee of professors and other experts typically oversees the Dissertation in the practice process. These mentors provide guidance, advice, and editing assistance. Students must prove their work and explain their findings during a legal defense.
Many programs are available if you are interested in pursuing a doctorate in education. Some focus on real-world problems in education, while others provide a rigorous curriculum that focuses on scholarly work.
Internships
Education internships offer several opportunities to gain practical experience in education. The benefits of these experiences include learning about the various techniques used to teach children and gaining a better understanding of how education professionals use their skills.
Internships are a part of many educational leadership programs. While they are not always required, they are an excellent way to gain practical experience and apply the knowledge and theories taught in the classroom.
There are several types of education internships, but they all provide similar opportunities for students. Many internships involve a multi-week, hands-on teaching position. These positions may include planning whole group lessons, evaluating multiple patients, or even consulting with hospital staff.
Other educational internships allow students to work in a private company or a school system. For example, student teaching internships allow students to practice their skills and hone their teaching techniques.
