Exam-Dissertation Sequence

Innovative Ideas, Transformational Practices

Welcome to the examination and dissertation process! We hope in this sequence of courses and milestones we can make the examination and dissertation process a more social and intellectually stimulating experience.  See below for the key features associated with the LDL Exam-Dissertation Sequence.

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Six-Course Exam-Dissertation Sequence (EDS)

After all regular courses are complete, students may begin the Exam-Dissertation Sequence (EDS). Each course builds towards your final dissertation.


Seminars, Milestones, and Examinations

The Exam-Dissertation Sequence (EDS) involves a series of seminars and incremental and cumulative milestones to help you complete your examinations and build towards your final dissertation.

These milestones serve a dual purpose. The initial purpose is to achieve your qualifying and preliminary examinations. The secondary purpose is for your dissertation manuscript. Learn more about each milestone by referring to the related web page and admin updates found under Navigating the Exam-Dissertation Sequence.

Key Features of the Exam-Dissertation Sequence

Key features of the approach we take in this six-course sequence are:

Systemic Peer Interactions

Peer-to-Peer Learning

Semi-formally in online discussions (restricted), and formally in peer reviewed projects, section by section as the draft of the dissertation evolves, and observing presentations.

6-Course EDS

Each course includes milestones that build towards your final dissertation.

Incremental and Iterative Milestones
Flexible Pacing

Flexibility

Flexible pacing with interim commitments (see suggested timelines and deliverables). While you register for a specific term, you can go at your own pace.

Peer Mentoring

where peers who are further into the process offer support to those who have started the EDS more recently, including a student led support community (restricted) where you can ask questions, share best practices, and offer support.

Peer Mentoring and Support
Advising

Advisor Support

Weekly synchronous advising sessions with the program instructors and peers. Individual advising sessions are available upon request.

Four-Person Faculty Committee

who stay with program participants throughout the six-course sequence, reviewing interim work and final deliverables. Currently, this group consists of Dr Mary Kalantzis, Dr William Cope, and two others that vary by student. Students are encouraged to identify a fourth committee member in consultation with their advisor.

Four-Person Faculty Committee
Supporting Documentation

Supporting Documentation

Find all necessary details on under the Dissertation menu of this web site and the CGScholar community. Additional links:
Process Resources
Course Details
Dissertation Resources

Getting Started

EDS Getting Started Tip

Complete the EDS Getting Started checklist and watch the EDS Onboarding video and attend the EDS Onboarding Office Hours at least one semester before you plan to begin the exam-dissertation sequence. Do not wait until you are ready to register. View the Happening Now page for the upcoming onboarding dates.


Resources