Can AI Facilitate a Human-Centric Approach to Writing a Problem of Practice Dissertation?

Insights from Doctoral Students

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/ie.2025.482

Keywords:

Artificial Intelligence (AI), CPED dissertation in practice, AI integration, generative AI and writing and research

Abstract

This essay explores the evolving role of generative AI within EdD programs, highlighting its transformative potential to support students throughout their dissertation journey. Through narrative inquiry, it shares the experiences of two doctoral students writing dissertations in practice about AI, while simultaneously negotiating the use of it in their research and writing. The essay centers around AI and the CPED framework, in particular, concepts of the problem of practice, inquiry as practice, and mentoring. By documenting these experiences, this essay offers valuable insights for students, faculty, and program directors navigating the integration of AI in doctoral education.

References

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Kumar, S. & Johnson, M. (2019). Online mentoring of dissertations: The role of structure and support. Studies in Higher Education, 44(1), 59–71. https://doi.org/10.1080/03075079.2017.1337736

Lambert, J. & Stevens, M. (2023). ChatGPT and generative AI technology: A mixed bag of concerns and new opportunities. Computers in the Schools, 1–25. https://doi.org/10.1080/07380569.2023.2256710

Ma, V. W., Dana, N. F., Adams, A., & Kennedy, B. L. (2018). Understanding the problem of practice: An analysis of professional practice EdD dissertations. Impacting Education: Journal on Transforming Professional Practice, 3(1), 13–22. https://doi.org/ 10.5195/ie.2018.50

Storey, V. A., & Maughan, B. D. (2016). Dissertation in practice: Reconceptualizing the nature and role of the practitioner-scholar. In V. A. Storey and B. D. Maughan (Eds.), International perspectives on designing professional practice doctorates (pp. 213–232). Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137527066_13

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Published

2025-02-07

How to Cite

Kell, C., Kraeer, B., & Cain, W. (2025). Can AI Facilitate a Human-Centric Approach to Writing a Problem of Practice Dissertation? : Insights from Doctoral Students. Impacting Education: Journal on Transforming Professional Practice, 10(1), 3–7. https://doi.org/10.5195/ie.2025.482

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 1 (2025): The Role of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Doctoral Research and Writing

Section

Themed-The Role of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Doctoral Research and Writing

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Copyright (c) 2025 Carrie Kell, Brian Kraeer, William Cain

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