While this has been true in the early history of educational research, it does need to be the case. What happens to a dissertation after the defense is a choice that the student must make. It is the student's responsibility that determines the ultimate fate of the dissertation. If the topic was chosen wisely and carefully, the dissertation should provide direction for future study and research for the next five to ten years. For some people, it may becomes a blueprint for life long study.
True professionals feel an obligation to disseminate their findings.
Researchers and practitioners alike should feel compelled to inform others about what they have found. If your findings are significant, dissemination is crucial to keep our profession dynamic with new voices and new ideas. The student should take an active role in disseminating his or her research findings. It is the student's responsibility to seek the dissertation advisor's assistance in publishing and presenting findings. The student should feel no pressure to engage in joint publication with the advisor, nor should the student believe that completing a dissertation will automatically lead to publication.