A Guide to the ALM Thesis - iSites - Harvard University

Chapter 1: Introduction and Administrative Procedures | 7
Chapter 1
Introduction and Administrative Procedures
The thesis, required of all candidates for the degree of Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies, is the
focal point of the master’s program. This project, which provides an opportunity for original investigation in
the field of concentration, demands a synthesis of the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the candidate’s
program of study. The completed work is the evidence that the research has been accomplished and
communicated to others in a conventional format.
It is useful, therefore, to begin to think about the project well before commencing the preliminary research.
Unsuitable areas of research can be eliminated; interesting questions can be defined; the relevant literature can
be reviewed. With such advance preparation, the thesis will provide an even greater opportunity to achieve an
integration of the work within the master’s program. Candidates are encouraged to examine prior theses on
reserve at Grossman Library (third floor, Sever Hall), which illustrate all of these procedures.
Facilities and Opportunities
The use of published materials in the University libraries, as well as electronic resources, is part of any successful
research project, but many other resources amplify these holdings. Examples at Harvard include collections
in the museums, archives, observatories, and specialized libraries such as those in the Fogg Museum and the
Medical School. In addition, materials are available at town and city libraries and the specialized libraries in
the Greater Boston area. Candidates for degrees in the biological and behavioral sciences, in particular, and in
some social science fields are typically expected to prepare a thesis based on the collection of original empirical
data employing either experimental or correlational design. This may take the form of laboratory research,
experimental or quasi-experimental methods, field research, or survey methods. These theses are most often
quantitative investigations, although a qualitative component may also be included. Such a project usually
requires experience in research design and statistical methods derived from course work, background reading,
or experience as a research assistant. The ALM program offers an opportunity to develop capabilities in using
these academic tools. Most important for any ALM research, empirical or analytical, are the proseminars—HUMA
E-100, BIOS E-200, and SSCI E-100a and b—required of all candidates for the ALM degree. In general, candidates
are required to take the proseminar in the area of the proposed concentration. However, candidates should
choose their proseminars carefully in order to learn the methods most appropriate to the intended thesis work
ahead. In some cases, it may even be in the candidate’s best interest to take a second proseminar if the thesis
method differs dramatically from the method taught in the area proseminar. For example, psychology and
biological sciences candidates interested in preparing a thesis that takes an historical approach to the study of
science or history of psychology would greatly benefit from exposure to the material in the seminar emphasizing
history and government. Similarly, candidates in linguistics or anthropology may need exposure to behavioral
science methods prior to designing a thesis study.
No student should reject a research project based on the collection of original data, or on the use of special
collections, simply because he or she has not had prior experience in using such materials. Research advisors are
available to help candidates evaluate the feasibility of such projects and to suggest ways of making appropriate
preparations. In this regard, the student is reminded to follow, when they are applicable, the published
guidelines of the Committee on the Use of Human Subjects, prepared by the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and
presented to the Institutional Review Board. Harvard Extension provides no funds or grants to students to offset
the cost of their research projects. Furthermore, students are expected to make their own arrangements to
secure needed laboratory space.
A Guide to the ALM Thesis