What About Theory?

Abstract

In recent years, EdD programs have been pulled toward programmatic, curricular, and pedagogical elements that support learning and skill development around the practical and technical elements of practitioners' work. However, incorporating theory into such programs can lead to important leadership preparation outcomes. In this paper, we highlight promising pedagogies, practices, and methods for incorporating theory into EdD programs. We then argue for the inclusion of critical and leadership theories in such programs that prepare school leaders. Lastly, we share how our EdD program has embedded and scaffolded theoretical content learning to reflect the needs of our students through coursework and selected assignments, milestone assessments, and the dissertation in practice.