Supporting African American involvement in a doctoral program at a regional comprehensive university: a research study of the experiences and perceptions of African American current doctoral candidates and African American doctorates
Year: 2012
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Education has been the path to battle moral injustice and to encourage self-governing dialogue about doing the "right thing" (Freire, 1998; Fullan, 2007; Hurtado et al., 1999; Tatum, 1992). Fullan (2007) claims that education is the "vehicle" to diminish inequities for the academically disadvantaged. Through interviews and conversations regarding their experiences and perceptions, this research study "gives voice" to African American doctorates, current doctoral students, and doctoral students who chose not to complete the doctoral educational leadership program at a regional comprehensive university in a Mid-Atlantic State (Allen, 1992, 2000; Delgado, 1995; Freeman, 1997; Soloranzo & Yosso, 2000, 2001). Using Critical Race Theory as a conceptual framework for analysis, the experiences of participants indicate that academic inequities for candidates seeking terminal degrees continue to exist. Findings suggest that support systems are needed at predominately White institutions for African American doctoral students to navigate socially and academically (Astin, 1993; Freeman, 1997; Tinto, 1975). The integration of these programs would enhance the success and retention of African American doctoral students (Freeman, 1997).
Author: Frankie Nicholson
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2405533811
