A Case Study of Doctoral Students' Perspectives of the Drastic Move From an In-Person to Virtual Environment During COVID-19

Author

• Martha Patricia Cias, University of the Incarnate WordFollow

Date of Degree

5-2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Program

Education

Advisor

Noah Kasraie

Advisor

Alison Buck

Abstract

This qualitative case research study investigated the students’ perspectives during the drastic transition from an in-person to a virtual environment during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021) at the doctoral level. The findings were grouped into six themes and revealed (a) the loss of structure and increased isolation, (b) development of online literacy and increased flexibility, (c) social movements stress and peer/professor support, (d) emotional resilience and resource use, (e) recognition of hybrid and mentorship models, and (f) the need for institutional preparedness considering students as stakeholders/customers. Concluding with the acknowledgement of the capacity of doctoral students to adapt in an unforeseen situation, which involved added stress, anxiety, and social pressure; and institutions’ obligation to foster the involvement of doctoral students in the development of future higher education delivery models.

Recommended Citation

Cias, Martha Patricia, "A Case Study of Doctoral Students' Perspectives of the Drastic Move From an In-Person to Virtual Environment During COVID-19" (2026). Theses & Dissertations. 480.
https://athenaeum.uiw.edu/uiw_etds/480