Pursuing a doctoral degree (PhD or EdD) in education can benefit new and experienced teachers. The intense research and analysis skills developed in a PhD program translate into more effective teaching methods and stronger mentorships.
Develop Specialised Knowledge
A doctorate program allows educators to gain in-depth knowledge of learning theories, instructional design, education policy, and current trends. This enables them to develop curricula better, implement evidence-based strategies, and meet diverse student needs.
For example, a teacher with a doctorate in special education would have expertise in assistive technologies and differentiated instruction to support students with learning disabilities.
Enhanced Research Capabilities
Completing a dissertation sharpens critical thinking and research abilities. Doctors of education can effectively locate, evaluate, and apply findings from educational research studies. This bolsters their instructional decisions.
For instance, a science teacher with a PhD could analyse the latest studies on interactive simulations to determine if they strengthen high schoolers’ engagement and concept mastery.
Equipped to Train Other Teachers
The coaching skills and deeper knowledge gained equip doctorate holders to mentor pre-service and novice teachers. They can assess needs, provide meaningful feedback, and suggest resources to support professional growth.
A National Board Certified Teacher with a doctorate could guide student teachers on evidence-based classroom management strategies and create standards-aligned lessons.
Serve as Curriculum Specialists
Educators with doctorates often become curriculum specialists within their schools or districts. They review and develop curriculum frameworks, craft course learning objectives, design instructional materials, and map standards alignment. Their experience also allows them to train teachers on implementing the curriculum with fidelity.
Credibility as a Leader
Earning a terminal degree conveys an educator’s advanced expertise. Doctors of education often emerge as leaders who can positively impact school culture and student outcomes through teacher development initiatives. They craft professional learning pipelines, lead teacher teams, manage programs, author policy papers, and pursue administrative positions.
A principal with a Ph.D. in Educational Administration would establish a robust school-wide mentoring system and provide ongoing coaching.
Authority as Published Scholars
During their dissertation research, doctoral candidates must conduct an exhaustive literature review on their chosen educational topic, uncover gaps in understanding, and collect and analyse original data. Many get published in peer-reviewed journals – cementing their authority as scholars. Their publications spread awareness of their findings and inform other researchers.
For example, a doctoral lecturer could get an article published on the effectiveness of educational apps for teaching geography in elementary grades.
Ongoing Learning Mindset
The intellectual rigour of a doctoral program cultivates a mindset of lifelong learning. EdD graduates model curiosity, innovation, and knowledge-building for colleagues and learners. They read academic journals, participate in conferences, and continue researching new theories and instructional approaches that can be implemented in real-world contexts.
A district English department head with a PhD could run a monthly book study group for teachers exploring contemporary works of adolescent literature.
Enriched Understanding of Educational Psychology
Doctoral coursework and research delve deeply into theories of human development, cognition, motivation, and the science of learning. This empowers educators to make even more informed decisions about lesson design and interacting with students.
For instance, a middle school teacher with a doctorate in Educational Psychology would skillfully apply principles of behaviourism through positive reinforcements.
Equity Advocacy
Many doctoral dissertations and scholarly projects address systemic educational inequities, and barriers marginalised student groups face. EdD/PhD graduates push for more diversity, inclusion, and accessibility – training teachers on implicit bias, universal design for learning, and social-emotional learning.
A school counsellor with a doctorate could spearhead school-wide anti-bullying initiatives and suicide prevention programs.
Higher Education Teaching
Doctorate in education degree holders are qualified for teaching positions at community colleges and universities. They teach pedagogical methods, develop undergraduate/graduate curricula, and instruct online or in-person courses. Their research background also enables them to supervise master’s and doctoral learners in these projects.
A tenured professor of instructional technology could teach about leveraging blended learning platforms and customise graduate-level programs.
Final Words
A doctorate in education empowers exceptional mentorship and teaching through comprehensive subject matter knowledge, research proficiency, training capabilities, leadership influence, scholarly expertise, understanding of learning science, equity advocacy, and motivation for continual growth. The title commands respect, while the experience allows experts to affect meaningful systemic change.
