Conceptualising “unexpectedness” during the doctorate

Abstract

The doctoral research process has been metaphorically described as a “journey” (Edwards & Mackay, 2012; McAlpine & Amundsen, 2009; Rath & Mutch, 2014; Skakni, 2018a, 2018b). While the doctoral journey has the potential to present destabilising experiences, discomfort and cognitive dissonance, candidates bring their own reasons and motivations to the process (Skakni, 2018b). According to Skakni(2018b), “the act of engaging in doctoral studies lies on a set of individuals’ desires, intentions and aspirations, which serve as a driving force oriented toward the future” (p. 200). As such, the doctoral journey presents both facilitating and constraining opportunities that help nourish the quest for self, intellectual quests and professional quest (Skakni, 2018b).