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[daryl_ks]

Hi everyone,

Got quite a narrow question, but was hoping I might run into someone who might be able to help me out...

I've spent the past 10 years working in ESL/EFL leadership/management type positions (am currently working for a university in such a role). I've taught, designed materials, been a teacher trainer, worked as an examiner. But moving forward in leadership/management at the tertiary level is where I'd like to be...

Has anyone had experience pursuing a PhD through a university 'Center for Educational Leadership' (or similar type of research center)?

Does anyone have any tips for further development as in ESL/EFL leadership/management?

Cheers

[nomad soul]

[daryl_ks]

Hi Nomad,

I'm based in New Zealand.

I'm a long-term member of TESOL international and new member of its local NZ affiliate (TESOLANZ).

I've presented at TESOL-affiliated events in Taiwan (for publishers - not my own research) and will be running a workshop at the upcoming CLESOL conference in NZ (I hope I get accepted).

I've done such short-courses as TESOL's Leadership Development Program and TESOL's Training of Trainers.

I've been back in NZ for 9 months. Prior to this my entire career was in Taiwan (which was kind of a black hole of professional development and I would never have had the opportunity to move above the position I held)... Therefore, in terms of moving ahead in a 'western' tertiary context, I'm kind of short on knowledge...

I know that a majority of people I work with have phD's (and all of those in more senior positions do). It's been on my mind to do one, but my interests have always been more in leadership/motivation than applied linguistics. In addition, I'd rather invest my time in something that has applicability outside of TESOL.

Cheers for replying!

[currentaffairs]

I would probably look at the Delta and take the DoS/Educational Leadership pathway. It looks to be a more practical and professional route and will develop and train people in the requisite skills needed.

However, if you want to move outside the field then perhaps a PhD would be beneficial but PhDs in the UK are very research-based and take a long time. I would see them as more for people who want to become lecturers and researchers.

What about doing an MA in Management/Leadership at a reputable university?

[daryl_ks]

I had thought of the DELTA, however don't think it will hold much weight moving ahead in tertiary education in NZ. I've got no issue with the research aspect of a PhD - I genuinely have interests in motivation and links between schools leadership and student outcomes. I'll be in NZ for the foreseeable future (got kids to get through primary, high school and university).

An MA in management/leadership would probably be more practical, but would one suffer from the perception (fact) of not possessing a PhD? Who knows...

Might need to try to sound out some locals in these fields...

[nomad soul]

[suphanburi]

OP:

Doing a related MA/E.Ed in educational administration / TESOL / TEFL if you don't already have a related thesis based MA is a good first step before you jump into a research based PhD/Ed.D.

Consider it your apprenticeship into original research and publication else you are more likely to end up ABD rather than PhD. Doing a post grad dissertation is NOT the same as your undergrad work. Form, format and genre will do you in if your committee doesn't.

.

[Richard62]

What about doing the IDLTM?

[daryl_ks]

Hi guys,

My MA was based around issues of intrinsic/extrinsic motivation and how they can be fostered via online learning platforms with secondary-aged students. I feel comfortable enough with getting back into the research side of things (although I might say something different once I start). However, in terms of doing something that has broader applicability (outside of TESOL) I though it best to not go further down this route.

I've also been involved in a few research projects focused on curriculum/course design.

I've also done a post-grad diploma in business administration.

[daryl_ks]

[daryl_ks]

Have found that 4 NZ universities have Centers for Educational Leadership "basically research groups that focus on leadership across all educational sectors". So, if one wanted to go the PhD / Leadership / Education route, perhaps such a research center would be a good place to start...

I had thought about Australian universities as well, but can't seem to find such centers.

CET (Cambridge English Teacher) magazine had an article last year about career progress as an ELT, but I can't remember if it focused too much on the tertiary sector...

I do think that given our industry (any industry maybe?) and the state of it (especially in NZ) it's always a good idea to pursue qualifications that go some way towards preparing one for a career outside of ELT.

[rtm]

[daryl_ks]

My director has a doctorate in Pasifika studies...

It heartens me to hear that there are directors of programmes who do hold such qualifications.

[nomad soul]

[MotherF]