Section outline

  • Meet in Primary Advisor Group or 1:1 Meetings (decided by Primary Advisor)

    Class content:

    The priority for this week is to begin to conceptualize and map the whole thesis. The first step is a progress check-in. Now is when you posit a core argument (thesis statement). You should assess the gaps in your data collection and analysis – and do what it takes to fill in the blanks.

    The outline is an exercise in thinking about the overall structure of the thesis and the research/writing ahead. For example, you may need a background chapter examining history, context, or analysis of relevant terms historical models or key concepts. Also, think about how you can break your topic into chapters: by chronology, case studies, themes, or some cogent hybrid model.

    In-person learning goals and activities:
    • Introduce full structure of the thesis (outline)
    • Present structure of the Introduction
    • Q&A re data/source collection & analysis issues
     
    Self-directed research and writing tasks: 
    • Continue data/source collection and analysis
    • Draft full outline due 9/25