XJTLU Welcomes Fifth Cohort of EdD Students

17 Mar 2026

XJTLU has recently welcomed the fifth cohort of students to its Doctor of Education (EdD) programme. This intake includes experienced professionals with extensive backgrounds in the education sector. Following a rigorous selection process, 14 applicants were admitted for the Spring 2026 entry. The EdD programme currently has a total of 66 enrolled students.

The induction event was held at the XJTLU Entrepreneur College (Taicang). The morning session brought together around 62 current EdD students, five programme leads, and 14 guest participants from the education sector for discussion and exchange. The afternoon session focused on induction activities for the new cohort.

Dr Tim London, Director of Learning and Teaching at the Academy of Future Education, opened the event by welcoming participants and outlining the induction programme. He noted that the EdD programme has developed a strong learning community, with previous cohorts achieving significant personal and professional growth. He encouraged the new students to continue exploring and developing throughout their studies.
In his address, Professor Xiaojun Zhang, Chief Officer of Education and Executive Dean of the Academy of Future Education, emphasised that the EdD programme is not designed as a replication of traditional doctoral training. Instead, it aims to explore future models of education and to develop educational leaders who can understand emerging trends and apply them in practice.
He highlighted a shift in the programme’s approach from a focus on traditional “teaching relationships” to a broader educational ecosystem. Participants are encouraged to bring their professional experiences into their study and research, contributing to a collaborative learning community built on shared expertise.

Professor Youmin Xi, Executive President of XJTLU, highlighted that education is entering a new phase of transformation, with innovation in global education systems becoming increasingly necessary. He noted that since its establishment, XJTLU has been committed to exploring new educational models and contributing to the advancement of global education through innovation.

Discussing future trends, Professor Xi pointed out that artificial intelligence and digital technologies are reshaping educational forms and creating opportunities for universities to explore new learning approaches. He emphasised XJTLU’s efforts to build open, flexible and dynamic learning environments, integrating educational innovation with technology to provide more personalised and future-oriented learning experiences.

The afternoon induction session focused on helping new students understand the programme structure and their academic journey. Dr Na Li, Head of the Department of Educational Studies and EdD Programme Director, together with Professor Ange Fitzgerald, Deputy Programme Director, introduced the programme framework, curriculum structure and study arrangements.

During the session, Professor Ange Fitzgerald, Dr Rebecca Cheung, and Professor Wen Wang, Associate Dean of the Academy of Future Education, presented the core modules and explained the expectations for teaching and research, helping students gain a clearer understanding of the programme.

Dr Trevor Mahy from the School of Languages introduced the overall academic journey from enrolment to doctoral defence, as well as the support provided by the Academic Skills Centre, including writing guidance, AI research workshops and one-to-one consultations. Ms Qiaodi Zhang from the Student Development Advisory Centre outlined the range of support services available to students, including personal guidance, resource coordination and assistance with campus life.

Dr Stefan Reindl, Chair of the Staff–Student Liaison Committee, outlined the committee’s role in facilitating communication between students and the Academy, ensuring that student feedback is effectively represented.

Dr Jike Qin, Head of Postgraduate Research Training, and Dr Huan Li, Academic Supervisor Coordinator, joined online to introduce the doctoral supervision system and explain the process of research direction selection, supervisor matching and doctoral training.

In addition, themed discussion tables were organised on topics such as student services, graduate school support, academic support and engagement with University leadership. The event also marked the launch of the EdD Peer Mentoring Initiative, which aims to facilitate academic exchange and mutual support among students across different cohorts.
By Xiaoyan Jin
Photo courtesy of  Jiawen Hong

17 Mar 2026