Motivation is a Myth: Supporting Doctoral Students During the Dissertation Writing Process
Location
Helms Classroom #171
Session Format
Presentation
Abstract
This session brings together the results of two larger bodies of ongoing research, one on dissertation writing groups, and one on dissertation coaching. The purposes of both studies were to determine if participating in either or both initiatives had a positive affect on doctoral students’ dissertation writing process. Data were collected via surveys and interviews over the course of multiple semesters. The session will highlight key findings from both studies. The researchers will also share practical implications they have learned from facilitating writing groups and coaching services, debunking the myth that motivation alone leads to successful dissertation completion.
Keywords
doctoral students, dissertation writing groups, dissertation coaching
Professional Bio
Dr. Njeri Pringle is an alumna of the Valdosta State University Leadership EDD program and is the COE of Creating Connections Consulting, LLC., an education consultant who provides dissertation development and coaching. Quarterly Dr. Pringle hosts Dissertation Working & Writing Bootcamp intensive. Dr. Jamie L. Workman is an Associate Professor of Higher Education Leadership at VSU. She teaches advanced coursework in doctoral student research and works with multiple students on dissertation committees. Dr. Workman also serves as a facilitator of the Dissertation Dive-In writing group, sponsored by the VSU graduate school.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Pringle, Njeri L., "Motivation is a Myth: Supporting Doctoral Students During the Dissertation Writing Process" (2026). Georgia Educational Research Association Conference. 48.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/gera/2026/2026/48
Motivation is a Myth: Supporting Doctoral Students During the Dissertation Writing Process
Helms Classroom #171
This session brings together the results of two larger bodies of ongoing research, one on dissertation writing groups, and one on dissertation coaching. The purposes of both studies were to determine if participating in either or both initiatives had a positive affect on doctoral students’ dissertation writing process. Data were collected via surveys and interviews over the course of multiple semesters. The session will highlight key findings from both studies. The researchers will also share practical implications they have learned from facilitating writing groups and coaching services, debunking the myth that motivation alone leads to successful dissertation completion.
