Abstract
The purpose of this year-long study was to examine and describe both the individual and shared experiences of a group of four women as they went through their Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program. The main research question was: What do you perceive as the factors that were integral to your achieving success in the doctoral program? Data from this qualitative case study were gathered through group interview sessions. Subsequent analysis of interview transcripts revealed the following factors that were integral to achieving success: sense of humor, family values, empathy, perseverance, spirituality, accountability to the group, collaboration, good advisors, ability to rebuild after setbacks, having role models, group support, and seeing the benefits of obtaining the doctorate. The goal of this study is to encourage other women to overcome the ABD (All But Dissertation) hurdle by giving them some tools to help complete the journey.
Recommended Citation
McIlveen, Patricia J.; George, Monica R.; Voss, Sharon L.; and Laguardia, Ada
(2006)
"Surviving the Doctoral Dissertation Experience: The N.W. Sisters’ Study,"
Journal of International Women's Studies: Vol. 7:
Iss.
4, Article 11.
Available at:
https://vc.bridgew.edu/jiws/vol7/iss4/11