Kristy Dellebuur O'Connor

Educational Theory and Practice doctoral student in the Faculty of Education

I am a PhD Candidate in Educational Theory and Practice: Philosophy of Education Stream at SFU. I am also a Faculty Member in the Child and Youth Care (CYC) department at Douglas College.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I chose to come to SFU because the Philosophy of Education stream offered me what I was seeking in a doctoral program: a community of scholars with whom I could explore the complex ethical dilemmas I encounter in my teaching career.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?

My research focuses on the ethical responsibilities of Settler educators in decolonizing post-secondary education. I am specifically interested in how Settler scholars in CYC professional education respond to the ethical demands to decolonize curriculum and pedagogy within a field of practice that is deeply entangled in historic and ongoing harms within settler colonialism.

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

The relationships I have developed with my fellow doctoral students have been a highlight for me –my scholarship and writing has been enriched by the many conversations we have had together about our respective projects. Navigating a doctoral program during COVID presented many challenges I never could have anticipated when I began my program, however the opportunity to find creative ways to stay connected and to write together virtually has been a joyful aspect of my doctoral experience.

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.

I received SFU Graduate Fellowship funding in the Faculty of Education. The financial support has allowed me to focus on my research in ways that would not have been possible without it.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM/POSTDOC POSITION TO SOMEONE STILL SEARCHING FOR A PROGRAM OR POSTDOC POSITION?

One aspect of the Philosophy of Education stream in Educational Theory and Practice that I really appreciated was the recognition of my experience as an educator that I was bringing to the program. My supervisor values my knowledge and guides me to use it as a springboard to help me stretch and grow as a scholar.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?

The close mentorship I have been provided by my supervisor and committee members has been instrumental in transforming my practice and scholarship. I am grateful for the ways they have offered me guidance, encouragement, and critical feedback throughout my doctoral studies.

Contact : kdellebu@sfu.ca

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