Preparing for a PhD: A Transactive Memory Approach

Abstract

Integrating theoretical insights from transactive memory theory, the current manuscript describes ways in which individuals may develop a cognitive and behavioral division of labor to mobilize the tasks, expertise and people necessary to successfully gain admission to doctoral programs. We employ this transactive memory framework to organize insights gained from the authors’ experience with and observations of the Annual Conference of The PhD Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing ethnic diversity in corporate boardrooms by diversifying business classrooms in higher education. Implications, recommendations and directions for future research are offered.