Beyond the Degree: Career Journey and Narratives of Doctor of Philosophy in Language Education (PhDLE) Graduates

Sherill A. Gilbas

Sherill A. Gilbas Sorsogon State University Graduate School, Sorsogon City, Philippines

Keywords: Career Journey, Narratives, Doctor of Philosophy in Language Education, Opportunities and Challenges, Professional Competencies

Abstract

In this paper, the career journey and stories of the graduates of PhD in Language Education (PhDLE) are discussed. Emphasis was put on the opportunities and challenges that they faced during their academic years in the Graduate School. This qualitative research adopted the narrative approach in exploring the effect of PhDLE program on professional skills, competences and development of its graduates. Drawing on McAdams’ Narrative Identity theory along with Mezirow’s Transformative Learning theory, the study concentrates on various factors that the four alumni, as participants in this paper, have experienced. The findings also identified the program’s effect on the graduates’ research, pedagogical and leadership skills. It is recommended that the experiences of the alumni may be considered in the continuous enhancement of the program.

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