The Formation and Benefits of Communal Cohorts in an EdD Program

Abstract

The present study explores the formation and benefits of communal cohorts within an EdD program. Data were gathered through focus groups and surveys. Findings include the roles of participants, activities, and shared spaces in developing communal cohorts, and the importance of the communal nature of cohorts in realizing their benefits.

Keywords:

• EdD
• graduate education
• cohorts
• communal cohorts

Acknowledgments

Sincere thanks to Dr. Amy Stich for her helpful input on an early draft and to the EdD cohort participants for their time and input.

Disclosure Statement

The authors report there are no competing interests to declare.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Leslie Gordon

Leslie Gordon is the former Associate Director of the Executive EdD Program in Higher Education Management at the Louise McBee Institute of Higher Education, University of Georgia, and currently an independent communication consultant.

Emily Chen-Bendle

Emily Chen-Bendle is a PhD student and Graduate Assistant at the Louise McBee Institute of Higher Education, University of Georgia.