Weeks

Discussion Topics

Assignments (due following week)

1.

Developing possible thesis topics. Where do topics come from?

Topic list and ratings

2.

Choosing a topic. What is the proposition? Some generic thesis topics. The proposal format.

Choose a topic and develop a proposition .

3.

Developing the initial proposal by adding an outline.

Develop an outline .

4.

Putting it together for an initial proposal.

Develop an initial proposal.

5.

Choosing an adviser . Lists of potential advisers.

Talk to potential advisers.

6.

Designing a research strategy . Primary and secondary research. Discussion of possible sources of information . The Institutional Review Board.

Submit an initial research strategy.

7.

Research progress. Research strategies: interviews and surveys . Discussion of first proposals. Progress of on-going research. Research strategies: note taking

Submit proposal for class comments. Initial research results

8.

Why your spelling checker does not work. Research strategies: getting information

Submit final proposals with modifications.

9.

The time line and budgeting your time.

Submit signed approval form .

10.

Planning for completion.

Status report . Project completion schedule and plans. Expected obstacles.

11.

All proposals approved. Overview, status reports, and time-line to completion.