Dissertation chairs play an important role in the doctoral journey—supporting students through challenges, celebrating successes, navigating setbacks, and helping guide the research process. But what helps dissertation chairs feel confident and effective in this mentoring role?

Jennifer Thompson, a doctoral student in Marymount University’s Educational Leadership and Organizational Innovation EdD program, is conducting an IRB-approved nationwide study examining how institutional factors are associated with dissertation chair self-efficacy and perceived effectiveness in applying research-based mentoring practices with doctoral students.

Dissertation chairs currently serving in U.S.-based, education-related PhD and/or EdD programs are invited to participate.

The study consists of an anonymous, one-time survey that takes approximately 10–15 minutes to complete. Participants will have an opportunity to reflect on:

• Their confidence and self-efficacy in the dissertation chair role

• Their use of mentoring practices identified in the research literature

• Institutional supports and challenges that may influence their effectiveness

• Additional experiences and perspectives through optional open-ended questions

The study seeks responses from 250–300 dissertation chairs across the United States. Findings are intended to provide insight into the factors associated with dissertation chair self-efficacy and mentoring effectiveness and may help inform institutional efforts to develop sustainable support structures for dissertation chairs.

Eligible dissertation chairs are encouraged to participate and share this research opportunity with colleagues.

Take the Survey: https://marymountedu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_417XZciAJvdhIGy

Learn More or Share the Study on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jennifer-thompson-10055337_study-purpose-problem-and-survey-ugcPost-7475301486403637248-laFT/

Download the Study Flyer

Submitted by:
Jennifer Thompson, MEd
Clinical Experiences and Assessment Manager
School of Education, College of Health and Education
Marymount University
LinkedIn