Dr W Dean Care Dean amp Professor Health Studies and Graduate Studies Brandon University September 2011 Thesis Topic S elect a topic that you care deeply about will find interesting to research and write ID: 1003293
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1. How to (Carefully) Choose a Thesis Advisory Committee Dr. W. Dean CareDean & ProfessorHealth Studies and Graduate StudiesBrandon UniversitySeptember 2011
2. Thesis TopicSelect a topic that you:care deeply about; will find interesting to research and write about; and for which you can find a faculty thesis advisor who shares your interest in exploring the topic.
3. Personal ReflectionWhat are your career goals?What are your personal work and learning styles?What are your timeframes for thesis completion?How will these fit with potential thesis advisor and committee members?
4. Thesis AdvisorAlso called “Chair” or “Supervisor”Talk to potential advisors by the end of your first year (second year if part time).Once you identify a potential topic, begin conversations with faculty whose research interests mesh with your interests.The Thesis Advisor can provide advice on elective courses that will fit your thesis topic.
5. Choosing a Thesis AdvisorTalk with other studentsNarrow down your optionsInterview the “candidates”Have you established rapport or a relationship?What are their sabbatical plans?Are they enthusiastic about your topic?
6. Choosing a Thesis AdvisorWhat is the advisor’s research/publication track record? (ask for their CV)How many graduate students are she/he supervising?Do they have time for you?Will they provide prompt feedback on drafts?Will they challenge you to excel?What is their style of supervision (general overview or micro manager)?
7. Thesis CommitteeTypically involves an Advisor/Supervisor, an internal member, and an external member (external to the School).The Thesis Advisor and thesis Committee should be advocates for your success throughout the process.Choosing the right committee will effect your thesis journey.
8. How to Choose a Committee?Ask your Thesis Advisor for suggestionsSpeak with other studentsSelect committee members that your advisor can work withInterview potential candidatesAsk questions about areas of expertise, strengths, time commitments, style of work, sabbatical plans, etc.
9. Choosing a Thesis CommitteeAre they members of the Faculty of Graduate Studies?Ask for a copy of their CV’sImpress upon them how you can help their careers (supporting their research; advancing the knowledge base; co-publishing/co-presenting from the thesis). What expertise do you need on your committee?
10. Choosing a Thesis CommitteeCan you work well with them?You want committee members who will be honest, challenging, and respectful.
11. Establish a Plan with Committee MembersEstablish a thesis plan with timelines (thesis proposal)How often should the committee meet (face-to-face or virtually)?What roles will members play?How often should you communicate via email, phone, webcam, or ??How are multiple thesis drafts to be handled?
12. No Cookie Cutter! Each student-advisor/committee relationship is unique. Some very successful ones are quite informal and distant; others are close and dynamic. One type of Advisor or Committee does not fit all!
13. Questions?