The Colloquia Philosophy: Scaffolding for a Unique Learning Experience

Golde and Walker (2005) state that the purpose of doctoral education is “to educate and prepare those to whom we can entrust the vigor, quality, and integrity of the field.” (p. 5). Graduates of doctoral programs become “stewards of the disciplines” in which they practice (Thombs, et al., 2004, p. 13). Viewed from the perspective of the recognized tasks of any university (Shapiro, 2005), Capella’s doctoral program seeks to advance and transmit knowledge while preserving the essence of graduate education through extending access to our adult learner populations. Capella is uniquely positioned to “exert leadership to help society shape new cultural commitments and expand others” (Shapiro, p. 11) through the delivery of high quality academic and residential learning experiences. The goal of doctoral education at Capella University, therefore, is to provide experiences that broaden understanding and that are inextricably linked with the integration, teaching and application of knowledge and intellectual accomplishments (Boyer, 1990). The purpose of this paper is to articulate the values, beliefs, and philosophical tenets of the doctoral colloquia experience. This colloquia philosophy serves as one aspect of the University’s internal guidance system in support of the curriculum provided to doctoral learners at residencies. These guiding principles retain their value as learners progress through academic coursework and meet three times face-to-face during their doctoral academic careers at Capella University. Philosophical underpinnings of curriculum development reflect the values that guide and support the delivery of the educational experience within doctoral programs (AAHB, 2005) as well as at the doctoral colloquia. Specifically a set of core values provides clarity of purpose of the colloquium element of the doctoral program at Capella University. Articulating the core values for the colloquia curriculum fosters understanding by learners, faculty, and Capella support departments and other stakeholders regarding the importance of this unique and intense face-to-face experience.