Technology, Innovation and Pedagogy Ph.D.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Technology, Innovation and Pedagogy provides a terminal degree in educational technology that culminates in a dissertation of original research in the field. Graduates work in a variety of learning contexts (PK-12, higher education, online environments, military training, business/organizational, and international settings) as professors, researchers, consultants, innovation officers, and scholars. Cooperative research, design, teaching and other scholarly projects are encouraged among students and faculty. The program is research focused and designed to be rigorous but practical. Students are expected to engage in theoretical and practical experiences throughout the program documented in the comprehensive exam process.
MA en route to PhD
A student who has been admitted into the Technology, Innovation, and Pedagogy PhD program may complete the TIP Master’s degree en route to completion of the doctoral degree. Students are required to submit a plan of study for both the master’s and doctoral degrees. Once admitted to the PhD, students seeking the MA en route to the PhD will complete the 30 credit MA program, but may participate in doctoral classes concurrently. See Technology Innovation and Pedagogy MA for more information and MA program requirements. Students must complete all program requirements (include the comprehensive examination) for the MA degree in addition to the minimum requirements for the PhD. No courses applied to the TIP MA degree may be used in the TIP PhD plan of study. Students must be conferred with the MA degree prior to admission to doctoral candidacy.
The doctoral faculty in the educational technology review applications in both fall and spring semesters. Admission criteria follow the UNC Graduate School expectations and include the expectations of minimum GPA and GRE scores. Applications require a two-page statement of career goals, three letters of reference, and transcripts from previous undergraduate and graduate work. The statement of career goals should specifically address how this degree program will assist the applicant in furthering their skills and knowledge and applying them in the future. The applicant must also complete a short interview scheduled with the doctoral faculty that concludes in a brief writing sample. The interview may be conducted in person or through digital technologies. International students are encouraged to apply early in order to be able to handle passport, visa, and other issues in a timely manner.
Once admitted, the student will work closely with their academic advisor to develop a plan of study that meets the individual professional needs. While all students are expected to complete the core content and research courses, electives are selected to tailor the program to meet various professional foci within the field of educational technology. Once admitted to a program, students must maintain a satisfactory grade point average of 3.2. Students will receive an annual letter of progress providing feedback regarding their individual progress toward completion of their program until they have passed the comprehensive exam.
Comprehensive Exam Expectations
Students must complete both Phase I and Phase II of the Comprehensive Exam Expectations in order to schedule a Comprehensive Oral Exam with the Graduate School. It is encouraged to complete Phase I prior to beginning Phase II, but it is acceptable to complete both Phases in the same semester. Phase II cannot be complete in a semester prior to the completion of Phase I.
Phase I - Electronic Showcase Portfolio
Students will work on constructing an electronic portfolio over the duration of their coursework. The expectation is that coursework may contribute to the items showcased in the portfolio, however work beyond the course assignments is expected. Work conducted completely outside of a course is also acceptable. The portfolio is divided into 5 areas and may be completed in any order.
5 areas of portfolio:
- Applications of Educational Technology
- Engagement in Research Practices
- Demonstration of Innovative Pedagogy
- Participation in Professional Collaboration
- Awareness of Critical, Social, and Global Perspectives
Phase II - Written Exam
Students will complete a take home written exam consisting of two questions. The exam will be conducted over a set two-week period each semester.
Dissertation Format Options
- Traditional 5-chapter format consisting of Introduction, Literature Review, Method, Findings, and Discussion.
- Articles format consisting of Introduction, Literature Review, Method, at least three chapters containing one Publishable Article each, and Conclusion.
For degree and program requirements: see:
Technology, Innovation and Pedagogy, Ph.D.