Balancing data analysis and literature review help for Adult Learning EdD

[RMiller92af765f]

I stumbled upon a dilemma that has left me feeling stuck. As a part-time doctoral student juggling work and studies, finding the right balance between data analysis and literature review proves to be more challenging than anticipated.

This struggle reflects my need for practical relevance in applied research while maintaining academic rigor. I'm an experienced practitioner-researcher seeking guidance on how to effectively weave together empirical evidence with theoretical frameworks in the context of leadership theory within adult learning settings.

How can I ensure my data analysis aligns seamlessly with my program evaluation goals? How do I keep my literature review focused yet comprehensive in addressing adult learners' needs? Any insights or strategies from fellow scholars navigating similar paths would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Mark2003]

The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) framework emphasizes "Problems of Practice" . Karalis Noel and Gorlewski's 2025 article in Impacting Education found that EdD students value "program relevance to their career goals" and that traditional evaluation methods may not support innovative programs . Your struggle to balance rigor AND practical relevance is PART of the EdD identity. You're not failing at academia—you're living the tension the degree is designed to address. The flipped defense model they mention might be worth looking into for how it reframes the relationship between theory and practice.