Doctoral Disposition Self-Assessment Paper

The Doctoral Disposition

Doctoral Disposition Self-Assessment Paper

Windy Allison

Grand Canyon University

Doctoral Disposition

The four fundamental questions that any student should ask-- regardless of educational level-- are what attributes do I need in order to complete my task, what attributes do I already possess, what attributes do I need to acquire, and what type of learner am I. If a student discovers the answer to these fundamental questions, the probability of success is heightened but not guaranteed. According to Butin, the driving force of success is the desire a student has in achieving the milestones in their lives and the doctoral degree is such a landmark. (Butin, 6)

One of the most valuable lessons I learned during my Master's program was identifying my strengths and weakness as a learner. I found that one of the greatest benefits of any learner is early identification of the areas of concern that could cause a stumble in one's educational pursuit. I have determined that I am a creative learner, one who values the openness of being able to construct my own voice and blend it with the voices of others. Gautam Bhattacharyya suggests that many doctoral students tend to follow the paths of their mentors; however, he deviated from the norm due to his research as an assistant professor (Bhattacharyya, 2008).

As I access what I already possess entering into the program, I recognize my strength as a writer. I clearly articulate the message I want my reader to garner from our conversation. I have limited grammatical errors that would disrupt a reader's ability to follow my train of thought. My writing style is fluid and easy to follow.

I need a mentor who will encourage my thinking, allow me to think outside of the box, and encourage my voice in my writing. I need a mentor who encourages me to reflect and as Dewey suggested, "think through the end of the process before' I 'begin" (Butin, 7) or even as one of the Biblical "truths" I espouse says, "to count up the cost to ensure you will endure to the end" (Luke:14:28).

Asking the right question is one such way to ensure that the outcome of the curriculum. As Bhattacharyya suggested in his article, Genesis of an Academic Program, it is necessary to begin the journey by asking hard questions and determining the audience you wish to reach. Looking ahead, I have identified my audience as the Catholic (general) church. My aim is to develop a pedagogy that the church will embrace as a curriculum to enhance the effectiveness of the teaching ministry of the church.

I recognize that Christian Education in the church is