Janine Pavlis

St Mary's University, United Kingdom

Title: Dual Pursuits: Motherhood and the Doctorate Journey

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Biography

Janine Pavlis After over a decade of working in primary schools across London, Janine pursued her passion for mentoring and teacher training by joining the team at St Mary’s University. As a Senior Lecturer in Primary Education, she leads in Design and Technology, where she successfully consults on developing curriculum content and maintains high standards of Design and Technology across various London boroughs. After earning a Master’s degree, she has continued her research into the lived experiences of primary school teachers, individuals' motivations to teach in schools, and the balance between motherhood and research. Janine is currently undertaking her Professional Doctorate at St Mary’s University with a focus on primary Design and Technology.

Abstract

Dual Pursuits: Motherhood and the Doctorate Journey

St Mary’s University, London

The transition to motherhood is transformative, altering goals, priorities, and responsibilities in ways no one can fully prepare for (Lovejoy and Stone, 2016). Before having my first child, I was certain about my desire to keep working, but soon realised this choice would come with significant trade-offs, constantly pulling me in different directions (Wolf, 2013). This reflexive journey during my EdD explores my thought process regarding my motivations and the choices I have made so far in my academic career.

The decision to pursue my research and have a family was an ongoing mental struggle (Chivers, 2011; Pavlis, 2024). I often felt that these goals were incompatible, and I debated which one should come first. I was torn between a deep sense of purpose in my career and the pressures of family life. Bailey’s (1999) work on pregnancy and identity shifts resonates with me, especially her insights on how work shapes one’s identity. Despite this, I began my Doctorate in late 2022, inspired by my young son, who quickly became my muse. My research on Design and Technology (D&T) became a way to create a better future for him, grounding me with renewed purpose.

Reflecting on my interests in motivation theories, I see D&T’s curricular value. It was a subject that fostered creativity and practical problem-solving, a discipline adapting to an evolving world yet often perceived as having weaker foundations (McLain et al., 2019). My research explores how teachers’ experiences shape their motivation to teach D&T, aiming to bolster its role in education for today’s students and my son’s generation. My reflexive journey aims to fuel this passion, guiding me to pursue research for all the right reasons.