Open Discussion Forum

  • 1.  Pursuing further education - Doctoral Programs

    Posted 08-20-2020 10:32 AM
    Hello! In recent years I have become increasingly interested and motivated to pursue further studies in child development and now I am wanting to reach out and see if anyone could explain some options or recommend some programs. 
    Current I hold a M.A.T. in Child Development and I think I'm looking to grow in a Ph.D. or EdD program. My biggest motivation is to be part of a community of dedicated early childhood professionals, to be able to have conversations and grow in knowledge. I am currently in Texas, but I'd like to find the best program fit for my interests and move if necessary. 
    I have questions and concerns about the workload and balancing that with my own family needs, especially the financial aspect. So if anyone could chime in on different ways to make different programs work that would be great. 
    In summary, I'm looking for feedback on different programs available, and information on making these different programs work in a flexible manner.

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    Makaila Mason

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  • 2.  RE: Pursuing further education - Doctoral Programs

    Posted 08-25-2020 01:48 AM
    Go for it. A doctoral program has the potential to change your outlook on life and education. My early childhood doctoral program did this for me. I recommend New Mexico State University. Its curriculum and instruction program focuses on early childhood sociology with an emphasis on social justice, post-structuralist approaches and deconstruction, and radical re-conceptualizations of early childhood education. If I had to do it all over again, though, I wish someone had asked me "what do you really want to do after you get your PhD?" We think a PhD is the ultimate educational achievement, however, it's an entry level pass into academia -- or research. There is still more to achieve after getting a PhD--which has to do with publishing, getting grants, moving up the ranks at a university from instructor to associate professor and beyond, and becoming to the go-to-expert. If you see yourself in that field, then a PhD is your ticket. But I think this path takes you away from working directly with children (at least in my experience). I love reading and writing about research, however, I love more working one-on-one with children and went the path of getting of getting an EdS. And now I'm back in school getting a degree in mental health counseling so I can become a play therapist. Good look with whatever you choose!

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    Alberto Mares
    Santa Fe NM
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  • 3.  RE: Pursuing further education - Doctoral Programs

    Posted 08-25-2020 05:41 PM
    Hello Makaila,

    I appreciate your interest in pursuing a doctoral degree. More research needs to be done in early childhood education. 
    Not enough research has been done with preschool teachers. 
    Interviewing preschool teachers and directors to see what issues they have is recommended for further research. 
    But a doctoral student has a huge commitment to complete the program, learning research, etc. 
    But with the right determination and vision you can do it.

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    Melanie Smith
    The Preschool Doctor
    thepreschooldoctor.com
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