In a doctoral program, a learner must assume the role of independent researcher
ID: 389035 • Letter: I
Question
In a doctoral program, a learner must assume the role of independent researcher in order to become an expert in their respected field of study. Along the way, learners will need to identify a gap (an area of study that needs to be researched) in order to formulate research question(s). Klingner, Scanlon, and Pressley (2005) detailed the process a researcher takes to produce a scholarly article. Discuss how a review of literature contributes to a doctoral identity by transitioning a learner into a scholar. As you make your way along your doctoral journey, other than completing one course and moving on the next, when and how will you evaluate that you are growing as a learner and as scholar?
Explanation / Answer
A literature review greatly contributes to a doctoral identity by transitioning a learner into a scholar. Upon entering a doctoral program, students are exposed to different scholarly cultures and begin to undertake several identity transitions concurrently. From the start of their study, doctoral students are striving to develop the identities of a doctoral student, a scholar and member of the academy, and an affiliate of a discipline through the review of literature. The ease with which the doctoral students internalize their new identities may influence whether they persist with their studies. McAlpine and Lovitts, (2008) suggest that taking an active role in research and becoming a part of a discipline provides a positive identity experience for doctoral students. Thus self study with the help of literature provides an independent and systematic research experience for doctoral students and helps them in transitioning into scholars.
While evaluating myself as a learner and scholar, I often question myself if I possess the strategies and skills required to earn a doctoral degree. During my doctoral journey, I have often received advice and suggestions from individuals of various degrees to always seek more information and evidence before making judgement and argument. There are different lessons ones should consider when evaluating themselves. Levasseur (2014) gives an example of how individual can exercise their responsibility as a scholar. Their primary task involves having critical thinking skills when analyzing and critiquing others’ works using appropriate tone and writing style. In addition, I always try to reflect on my previous experiences to determine if I possess intellectual curiosity. When I am involved in any scholarly environment, I usually start out by asking myself whether or not I make substantial attempts to figure out answers if I come across something I do not know or do not understand. Having said that, I constantly evaluate my skills around this area since I realize that being intellectually curious is an excellent habit and a disposition that indicates a readiness of thinking deeply as a scholar.