Prof. Michael Tomlan's Talk on Exit Projects: Part 1

Summary

In this session, the speaker shares insights gained from over 25 years of experience in guiding thesis work, particularly for those in historic preservation programs. The focus is on the process of defining a thesis problem, the importance of narrowing research scope through geography and chronology, and the need for careful planning and time management. The speaker stresses that the ultimate goal is to finish the project, even if the conclusions differ from initial expectations, and highlights the value of thinking through each step of the thesis process for a successful outcome.

Takeaways

• 😀 The session shares over 25 years of experience in guiding thesis work, focusing on historic preservation, but applicable to any thesis or professional report.
• 😀 The notes and steps shared in the session are designed to help students complete their thesis or project report, whether in historic preservation or other disciplines.
• 😀 The video recording will serve as a future reference for students, allowing them to revisit and clarify concepts and ask questions later.
• 😀 The process of defining the nature of the problem is one of the most critical steps in any thesis or project work, setting the scope of the study.
• 😀 A thesis doesn't need to follow the initial assumptions; conclusions can change based on data analysis, making flexibility an important aspect of research.
• 😀 Geography and chronology serve as key delimiters in any research project, as time and access to information limit the scope of the study.
• 😀 Students must plan their time carefully to complete each step of their project, understanding that the completion date depends on the time allocated for research, writing, and revisions.
• 😀 Evaluating the existing research and determining what additional information is needed is essential to building a solid foundation for the thesis or report.
• 😀 Balancing a thesis with other classes and commitments requires the ability to quarantine time for focused research and writing.
• 😀 In addition to personal research, enlisting the help of instructors or specialists can provide valuable insights and support throughout the process.
• 😀 The overall goal is to finish the project successfully within the set timeline, making careful planning and execution of each stage of the thesis crucial for success.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of this presentation?

The main purpose of this presentation is to provide guidance on the thesis process, specifically for those in historic preservation programs. The goal is to help students understand the steps involved in completing a thesis, research report, or professional report, with an emphasis on defining the project scope and managing the research process effectively.

Why is defining the nature of the problem considered the most important aspect of a thesis?

Defining the nature of the problem is crucial because it sets the scope and direction of the research. A clear definition allows researchers to narrow down their focus, ensuring that the project is manageable and achievable within the time frame. It also helps identify key delimiters such as geography and chronology that guide the research process.

What does the speaker mean by the term 'thesis'?

The speaker uses the term 'thesis' loosely, acknowledging that it may not always involve a formal dissertation. In some cases, it can refer to a term report or a project report. The key is that the work involves defining a problem, conducting research, and presenting findings in a professional manner.

Why is the scope of geography and chronology important in thesis work?

The scope of geography and chronology is important because they serve as the primary delimiters for the research. These constraints help researchers focus on a specific time period and location, making it feasible to gather relevant information and analyze it in a meaningful way. Without proper geographic and chronological limits, a thesis can become unmanageable.

How does access to information impact the research process?

Access to information is a critical factor in thesis research. If a researcher lacks access to relevant sources or materials, especially in specific geographic regions, the quality and depth of the research will be compromised. The availability of data and resources often determines the feasibility and success of the project.

What role does time management play in completing a thesis?

Time management is essential in completing a thesis because it helps students stay on track and meet deadlines. The process involves multiple stages, such as research, writing, and revision, which require careful planning. A calendar with benchmark steps ensures that each phase is completed on time, preventing procrastination and last-minute stress.

Why is it important to think through the steps of the problem at the outset of a thesis?

Thinking through the steps of the problem at the outset helps students map out the entire research process. Since many students are inexperienced with such lengthy projects, planning ahead allows them to anticipate potential challenges and allocate sufficient time for each stage. It also ensures a clearer understanding of what needs to be done and when.

How does a student determine when they are ready to finish their thesis?

A student determines when they are ready to finish their thesis by evaluating their progress against a series of benchmark steps. These steps include completing research, analyzing data, and drafting the final report. The key is to recognize when all necessary work has been done and when the research is sufficiently robust to support the thesis conclusions.

What challenges do students typically face when doing thesis-level research?

Students often face challenges such as insufficient time to balance other commitments, difficulty in accessing key research materials, and uncertainty about how much additional research is needed. Many students also struggle with estimating how long the research and writing process will take, which can lead to procrastination or rushed work.

Why is it valuable to consult with specialists during thesis research?

Consulting with specialists during thesis research can provide valuable insights and guidance, particularly when students are working in areas outside their expertise. Specialists can help refine the research question, suggest additional resources, and offer feedback on the project's direction, increasing the overall quality and depth of the work.