CSEd PhD

Applying for a PhD

By

,

Introduction

Hello and welcome to this blog where I will share my journey to a PhD in Computing Science Education. I plan to blog regularly about the processes, activities, successes and challenges involved in doctoral study and share insights into what I am learning.

My Background in Computing

The decision to pursue in-depth study in of Computing Science Education was not a random one. In 2019, I graduated with distinction from a Masters degree in Computing Education and since then I have been working on computing education research projects to broaden participation in computing. My undergraduate degree was in IT and Computing, and when Computing became a mandatory subject in the English Curriculum in 2014, I began to teach computer programming in classrooms and after-school clubs. I had first learned to write code using “copy and paste” ready-made programs such as the Usborne Creepy Computer Games, and it quickly became clear that this approach was not going to work for a whole class of 8- and 9-year-olds. Through initiatives such as Computing at School, I became interested in research that investigated approaches for teaching and learning computing. Over the last 10 years, I have seen the rapid evolution and expansion of the computing education research field, and the importance of continuing to strive to advance new knowledge so that every child can learn computing.

The Application Process

Most websites will advise that prospective PhD candidates need to allow at least 2 – 3 weeks to write a proposal for doctoral study. My proposal writing was unusual, in that I started writing on Friday evening and submitted my proposal on Monday morning, having spent just a weekend on crafting the 4-page document. Two things helped me produce a proposal in a very tigh timescale:

  1. I drew on my existing knowledge of research in the field, particulary theoretical frameworks and potential research gaps to write a proposal that was original and would be a contribution to advancing new ideas
  2. I followed the guidance on the School of Computing Science web page and made sure I included all the required components

Although that sounds like a straightforward process, it was actually a very tight timescale and I was fortunate to receive really helpful feedback on a first draft of my proposal from my potential supervisor. By the submission deadline, I was able to present a comprehensive application. It’s amazing what can be done when there is a deadline ahead!

Securing the Scholarship

As well as applying for the doctorate role, I also applied for an EPSRC studentship to cover the course fees and provide a small stipend during the period of my doctoral studies. This funding opportunity was signposted by the CCSE and was an essential part of my application in order to unlock the PhD study path for me. One of the most exciting moments in this journey so far was notification that I had been awarded the studentship as well as a place on the doctoral study programme under the supervision of Dr Maria Kallia.

Next steps

My PhD journey will begin at in early 2024 and I am excited by the prospect of contributing to the advancement of Computing Science Education and being part of a community dedicated to nurturing future computing students. I will be continuing to blog thoughout my studies as I embark on this transformative chapter in my academic career. I look forward to sharing further updates soon!