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:
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.
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.
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.
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
Key Exam-Dissertation Sequence Resources