Date of Submission
2007
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
Department
Psychology
Department Chair
Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP
First Advisor
Diane Smallwood, Psy.D., Chairperson
Second Advisor
Rosemary Mennuti, Ed.D.
Third Advisor
Ray Christner, Psy.D.
Abstract
There is a noticeable absence in the professional literature regarding what school psychology doctoral students believe leads to satisfaction during their advanced training. Consequently, a general review of available research was conducted to ascertain what other closely related fields say about student satisfaction during doctoral training. As the document progresses, a variety of issues including funding and mentoring as well as considerations for multicultural and ethical issues as they relate to the topic are investigated. A theoretical model of what constitutes a satisfying experience for doctoral training in school psychology is provided. A program specific evaluation was conducted of the first three cohorts that included survey data with the addition of semi-structured interviews also completed for cohort one. The data provides generally positive reviews of the PCOM experience within the school psychology program, although there are perceived limitations within certain aspect of the training experience that are explained. This document ends with a robust discussion that provides potential suggestions, based upon prior research and current data, for satisfaction improvement. A theoretical model of what might constitute an ideal training experience at PCOM, or other school psychology doctoral programs, is provided for consideration.
Recommended Citation
Deguffroy, Ronald M., "Student Satisfaction and Program Evaluation for the First Three Psy. D. School Psychology Cohorts at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine" (2007). PCOM Psychology Dissertations. 38.
https://digitalcommons.pcom.edu/psychology_dissertations/38