Rachel Fiedler’s Post

"Reform the PhD system or close it down," by Mark C. Taylor argues that the PhD education system in the United States and other countries is outdated and unsustainable. It criticizes the oversupply of PhD graduates, who face limited job prospects, and the persistence of an academic model rooted in outdated traditions. Taylor suggests reducing the number of PhD programs, focusing on interdisciplinary and practical education, and encouraging collaboration between universities to better align with contemporary needs and job markets. The goal is to create a more effective and relevant doctoral education system. #Research #Phd #Mark C.Taylor #System

Should PhD students conform to the established norms of university teaching culture upon entering academia and how are they accepted by the community? The response is nuanced: acceptance can vary significantly among individuals. Our research indicates that there is a link between a PhD student's ability to adapt to the cultural norms of the university teaching community and their level of acceptance within that community. Those who are more readily accepted often enjoy increased autonomy in their teaching roles. Conversely, PhD students who struggle to forge connections with faculty members tend to remain relatively obscure within the university environment. This lack of integration can severely limit their teaching autonomy, their learning about teaching and hinder their capacity to initiate change. For a deeper exploration of these dynamics, please refer to our study here:https://lnkd.in/dpZNc43P #PhDstudents #UniversityTeaching #UniTartu

In today's academic landscape, the focus on publications often overshadows the true essence of PhD research. As Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, Chair of UGC and AICTE, aptly points out, "We need to encourage scholars to become inquisitive explorers, papers will naturally follow." By prioritizing PhD quality over quantity, we can foster a more innovative and impactful research ecosystem. It's essential to shift our focus towards nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for knowledge. Let's strive for a future where PhDs are recognized for their intellectual depth and contributions to their respective fields, rather than solely by the number of papers published. #PhD #AcademicResearch #HigherEducation #ResearchQuality #Innovation #ScholarlyPursuits #Knowledge #Learning #AcademicLife #Education #Research #University #GraduateSchool #Academia #PhDLife #PhDStudent #PhDThesis #ResearchGate #AcademiaTwitter #AcademicChat #AcademicCommunity #EducationReform #HigherEducationReform #ResearchGate #AcademiaTwitter #AcademicChat #AcademicCommunity

🎓💡 Thought-Provoking Read on Reforming the PhD System In a compelling piece from Nature, Mark C. Taylor argues that the current PhD system, rooted in medieval traditions, must either be significantly reformed or pared down. He emphasizes that we are producing too many PhDs for a job market that cannot sustain them, creating unrealistic career expectations for new academics. Universities face mounting financial challenges, with an urgent need to adapt to a rapidly changing educational landscape. Although, academic institutions play a critical role, individuals must also take proactive steps to continually learn and adapt their skills to stay relevant in their careers. The PhD system, with its deep roots and vast influence, indeed requires a thorough overhaul to better serve both the academic community and society at large. What are your thoughts? Do you think the PhD system needs a reform, and if so, what changes would you propose? #PhDEducation #HigherEducation #CareerDevelopment #AcademicReform

Hi George Kuh, Thanks for mentioning CUR in your quote in 'A Model for Advancing Institutional Effectiveness via Undergraduate Research' for Inside Higher Ed. https://lnkd.in/eHHau2eE

The original spirit of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) was rooted in deep intellectual inquiry and comprehensive academic training. However, with the rise of online and taught-course PhD programs, the focus seems to have shifted primarily to offering just another degree, often at the expense of the holistic development of the graduate. It’s not just the institutions at fault. Doctoral committees also tend to focus mainly on the output or thesis, rather than ensuring the graduate himself and whether he or her has undergoes a rigorous academic journey. This raises a critical question: Are we losing the ‘philosophy’ in PhD? As more institutions and committees prioritize business and quick results over thorough education, the integrity of this esteemed degree is at risk. It’s time to re-emphasize the importance of the academic process and the development of true scholars, not just the attainment of a title. #PhD #HigherEducation #AcademicIntegrity #EducationQuality

Sometimes, in the midst of the research hurdles and dissertation mountains, it's easy to doubt your own capabilities. But here's the truth – you've got what it takes to conquer the challenges that come your way. Break down your tasks into manageable steps, celebrate the small victories, and know that each bit of progress is a testament to your resilience. When doubt creeps in, remind yourself of your achievements, both big and small. The journey might be challenging, but so are you. So, stand tall, embrace your potential, and tackle each chapter of your doctoral story with the unwavering belief that, indeed, you can. #doctoralsupportteam #gradschool #graduate #masters #graduatestudent #phd #phdlife #edd #schoollife #thesis #dissertation #gradlife #gradschoollife #gradschoolproblems #gradstudent #graduateschool #mastersdegree #phdstudent #timemanagement #dissertating #doctoratedegree #eddjourney #academiclife #academicwriting #doctoralstudent #doctorate #gradschoolprobs #phdjourney #phdproblems #thesislife

On growing as a PhD student (or your only benchmark is yourself). When working on your PhD, remember that your competition is not the person next to you. Your competition is your pre-PhD self. Your job is to grow - intellectually, spiritually, and physically. If you do, you will be ready to perform in the classroom, conduct research, and be a good colleague - when your PhD journey is done. #academiclife #academicjourney #phdstudents

This almost goes without saying, but another thing you need to do, at least in economics, is develop some clear research interests. That's a very important factor in deciding which schools will be best for you. For example, my main field of interest is health. The schools I was most excited about applying to and possibly attending are ones with at least a few well established health economists on their faculty. How to develop research interests? At a minimum, by reading lots of papers, starting with topics in the Journal of Economic Perspectives that sound interesting to you. The rest will happen pretty naturally.

Attention University Professors and Academicians When it comes to PhD admissions, what matters the most? 1. Statement of Purpose (SOP) 2. Letters of Recommendation 3. Research Publications 4. CGPA 5. Undergraduate/Graduate Institution I’ve observed cases where students secured admission into top-tier universities without any research publications, while others with strong publications faced rejections. What, in your opinion, plays the most significant role in the selection process? I’d love to hear your insights! #PhDAdmissions #AcademicResearch #HigherEducation #PhDLife #GradSchoolTips #ResearchOpportunities #StatementOfPurpose #LettersOfRecommendation #UniversityAdmissions #AcademicSuccess #PhDCommunity #Proffessor