415.881.01
Genetic Counseling Program Thesis Proposal Development II

Prerequisite:

415.880. Must be enrolled in ScM in Genetic Counseling Program

Description:

Provides students with the skills to develop and write a proposal for their own research project, based on preliminary work done during the course’s first term. Prepares students to refine their proposal for submission to the Executive Committee and prepare for the oral presentation during the third term of the course (second quarter). Guides students, by the end of the three terms, to turn a nascent research idea into a proposal which will then become a thesis.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:

1. Finalize a strong specific aims page
2. Articulate study hypotheses and exploratory questions
3. Prepare a focused literature review supporting: a) the significance of the problem addressed; b) relevance and implication of the proposed study for Genetic Counseling research, education or practice; c) identification of unanswered questions and research gaps; d) identification and application of a relevant conceptual framework for the study; e) delineation of methodological approaches used to examine or ameliorate the problem
4. Present proposed methods to address the study aims and questions (study design, data sources and measures)
5. Define study population including inclusion and exclusion criteria
6. Prepare a draft analysis plan
7. Draft an overview of key IRB considerations
8. Complete a full working draft of a formal research proposal for independent thesis research

Methods of Assessment:

This course is evaluated as follows:

• 35% Written Assignment(s)
• 10% Peer-feedback
• 40% Paper(s)
• 10% Discussion Board
• 5% Participation

Instructor Consent:

No consent required

Jointly Offered With:

• HBS