Abstract
The purpose of this article is to provide an example of how an EdD in Community College Leadership program is offered in an online format. First, the benefits of online programs, including increased access and flexibility for working professionals and higher levels of diversity among the student body are discussed. Then, several strategies to promote connection among students and to facilitate a supportive, engaging learning environment virtually are shared. For example, the value of using a cohort model, a carefully designed curriculum with assignments that have practical value, and a balance of synchronous and asynchronous learning activities is described. Finally, the important role of and strategies for incorporating models and mentors into an online doctoral program are discussed.
Highlights
University of Pittsburgh as part of its D-Scribe Digital Publishing Program and is cosponsored by the University of Pittsburgh Press
Some educators may question whether online programs develop critical thinking as effectively as in-person courses do
Hermond and Tanner (2020) defined five domains of critical thinking including understanding, judgment, reflection, originality, and caution/skepticism. They conducted a small study of graduate students in Texas to determine the degree to which participants in online graduate courses value critical thinking and the degree to which feel they are developing these skills
Summary
Doctoral programs that are offered in a traditional, face-to-face format add burdens such as travel costs, housing costs, time for travel, and inflexible schedules that can negatively impact students personally and professionally. These barriers may discourage prospective students, especially Black and Latinx students as they are more likely to face multidimensional poverty (Reeves et al, 2016), from applying to the program and earning a doctoral degree that is often needed to get their voice at the table for important conversations about supporting community college success. Three aspects of the CCL program will be discussed: the cohort model, curriculum development and delivery, and the use of models and mentors
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