Wavering Motivation?

I just started one recently but it dropped quickly down the list. Referencing a LA Times article. http://www.degreeinfo.com/general-distance-learning-discussions/39132-masters-degree-holders-victims.html

 

Stefan - I'm not trying to be unkind but how can you even imagine doing an EdD when you can't tolerate an online course for 1 or 2 weeks?

 

I did my entire MA online, so I can complete an online course without trouble. The problem isn't the work; it's the modality.

Discussion boards are, well, ridiculously boring. This has been the case in almost every online class I've taken, regardless of institution or subject. In class discussion is about 200X more engaging for me, and my intensive experience in Lynchburg confirmed this fact.

I suppose my point is that I'm starting to feel like an online program may not be the best option for me. For the intensive, I was excited to go to class. I had a lot of fun with my group for our presentation, and interaction with others throughout the course was a very positive element.

I have absolutely no qualms about the Ed.D. program in terms of rigor, etc. I think the LU Ed.D. is a fantastic program, but I guess I'm starting to wonder if I might have a more positive experience in residence.

 

A job worth doing is worth doing well. Find your calling and give it your all. If this is part of your calling, then you should apply yourself and enjoy the satisfaction of a hard day's work. The online classes are a bit impersonal so try to channel your inner geek and become a little happy in your introversion. I spend 8-10 hours per weekend day reading books so I totally understand

 

I have made the decision to bail on the program at LU. I will finish out my term, but I don't plan to continue in the fall.

I based this decision on a few criteria:

1) The online environment. My experience in Lynchburg for a week really opened my eyes to the reality that although I can be successful in an online environment, I have a richer experience in a classroom.

2) The generalist focus of the EdD at LU. I knew it would be dominated by K-12 teachers and administrators, but very little focus is on higher education. There are courses in the curriculum specifically dedicated to higher education administration, but I would rather find a program totally focused on Higher Education. Just one example: I have absolutely no desire to design K-12 lesson plans--ever, but this is a component of a required course even in the EdD leadership concentration.

3) Availability of B&M programs within driving distance. I have begun the application process. I really want to pursue doctoral level education, but I would prefer something with more classroom time and a specific focus on higher education.

4) Networking. Having a network with individuals in K-12 education isn't as beneficial to me. I really need to be in a program with greater networking opportunities in higher ed.

All in all, I think the LU program is a great program, but it doesn't appear to meet my academic and professional goals at this time.

 

Seeing that reasoning, I totally support your decision. How many classes have you done at LU? I hope they will transfer into your new program so you don't waste anything.

I am a K-12 teacher and I agree, the program is dominated by us.

 

I will be done with 6 hours by the end of the term. It's probably not that likely that the hours would transfer because I intend to pursue a higher ed program, but I'm not too worried about it.

 

Just curious. What is the local doctoral program? Happy Friday!

Ian

 

It's not local, but it is within driving distance. I'd prefer not to mention it because of competitive admissions, etc.

Upon even FURTHER reflection, I think I'm going to go with this route:

1) Stay at LU for the time being. After thinking about the options, I realized that even in "higher education" programs, my work in non-traditional higher education may also seem out of place to a certain extent. The work with K-12 teachers and administrators may not be so different.

2) Apply for one EdD program that is just about perfect for what I want to do. Admission is competitive for this program, however, and it is far from a sure thing. If I am by some miracle admitted, then I can transfer. If not, then no harm no foul.

3) Take courses this fall that will assist me in further study, regardless of my ultimate route. I plan to take the advanced education statistics course and one other course.

4) Taking 6 more hours this fall will bring my total of education courses to 18 graduate hours, so I could possibly pursue adjunct opportunities at my campus. My supervisor (who is working on his EdD) teaches an introduction to college style course for non-traditional students, and we anticipate a need to increase the number of our sections in the near future. The campus dean is very interested in having me teach whenever I am able to do so.

 

And...you think we will all apply?

 

No, I just don't want to risk having someone on the admissions committee finding my posts on DI. I know it's remote, but I don't want to take any chances.