Lesson Report:
**Title:** Thesis Development and Research Brainstorming Session
**Synopsis:** In this session of the senior thesis course, the objectives were to clarify the distinction of roles between the professor and thesis advisors, set classroom expectations, and engage students in brainstorming exercises to help them begin the process of selecting a thesis topic. Students participated in reflection and group discussions to align their academic interests and potential research areas. The session aimed at minimizing student stress by creating a supportive and collaborative environment.
**Attendance:** No specific absences were mentioned in the transcript. Guidelines for attendance were reiterated.
**Topics Covered:**
1. **Course Structure and Responsibilities:**
– Explanation of roles: The professor as a facilitator and thesis advisors as primary authorities guiding thesis development.
– Importance of community-building and peer feedback in the course.
2. **Classroom Expectations:**
– Attendance policy and participation requirements, both physical and online.
– Emphasis on engagement and interaction, discouraging distractions.
3. **Reflective Exercise:**
– Students reflected on previous academic achievements and interests.
– Three questions posed for reflection:
1. An academic assignment or activity they’re proud of.
2. Personal academic interests.
3. A pressing question about the world that intrigues them.
4. **Partner Discussions:**
– Students paired up to share and compare reflective exercise answers.
– Encouraged to identify common themes and intersections in interests.
5. **Group Activity – Discussing Interests:**
– Formation of groups to discuss wider intersections of academic interests and potential thesis topics.
– Encouragement to explore specific directions for research topics.
6. **Research Speed Dating:**
– Brief one-on-one interactions focused on sharing academic interests and knowledge freely.
– Each student had the opportunity to share their ideas in an unstructured format.
7. **Micro Presentations:**
– Students prepared concise, structured presentations of their chosen thesis topics.
– Emphasized the background, current knowledge, and future potential of the topic.
**Actionable Items:**
**Urgent:**
– Ensure all students are added to the e-course page; send enrollment instructions to those not yet enrolled.
**Upcoming Preparations:**
– Prepare for next week’s session on formulating research questions.
– Read assigned chapters posted on the e-course page.
**Technical/Administrative:**
– Follow up on breakout room capabilities for virtual sessions to enhance online participation.
– Encourage students to exchange contact information for better collaboration.
This detailed report should aid in tracking the progress of the course and preparing for subsequent lessons.
Homework Instructions:
NO HOMEWORK. The transcript shows that future reading assignments will be posted on the eCourse page, but no specific homework was assigned during this lesson.