I looked long and hard at distance PhD programs, and found that none of the ones in the US met my needs (both of interest and of finance). I think of myself as somewhat transdisciplinary, and the idea of going a mile deep in such a narrow area (as if knowledge can be compartmentalized) is a foreign concept for me. Thus, I needed a program that would allow a bit of flexibility. Ok, more than a bit of flexibility–I needed a program where I can create and develop as I go along, one that will meet my somewhat complex and postmodern needs.
In some ways the Lancaster program has somewhat of an American model, in that there are courses and shared learning during part of it, and then the independent component during the rest. As I learned, much of the rest of the world does not have the formalized coursework that is rather standard in nearly all US programs. However, I find that my program is very open to interpretation when we are asked to “apply what we are learning to our practice”–I take great liberty with how I understand and make sense of my own practice–and thus far have felt very supported in my program without feeling constrained at all. I do feel comfortable with my degree program situated within an Educational Research department.
For my own community of practice support, I have found that much of my network, which is Twitter and blog focused, is either on the PhD route or has recently completed it. However, it does not have the CoP framework around it . . .
Hi Jeffrey,
who do you consider to be part of your CoP? Your fellow PhD students, or the netowrk you are referring to? Good to learn that you have fiund a program thats is open-minded. “Apply what we are learning to our practice” could be far more narrowly meant than it seems to be here. Good luck!
Hi Jeffrey
Thanks for sharing this perspective – it’s interesting to hear how you came to study in the UK – not least because I am looking across the pond for doctoral study options. Just wondering if you had investigated this program and what you opion is as to the value/status of this institution.
http://www.universities.com/Distance_Learning/University_of_Maryland_University_College__Graduate_School.html
Best
Britta
@Vigdis Stokker Jensen
Interestingly, Vigdis, that while I am in a cohort program with a lot of nice and interesting people from around the world, I have not had the sort of team bonding that I have received from my extended and more informal network out here (such as with you or with Britta). From what I understand, this may change and develop within my program the further into it we travel, but for now it is not the case with me. I suppose this has more to do with my research interests and direction I am beginning to travel, more than anything else.
This is becoming an increasingly interesting and related topic of my research itself, ironically!
Jeffrey
@Britta Bohlinger
How our paths may cross in real-time one of these days, oh extended (and very real) colleague of mine!
I have heard people discuss this institution, though I have not known people who have studied there (that I am aware of). I know you are looking into programs, though I thought you were looking into doctoral studies from a distance?
Jeffrey