ASK Linda Peterson: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Linda's Past Responses

To supplement the in-class discussion of submission questions and answers, I am broadcasting relevant emails I saved from previous Thesis Prep classes. Even if you've heard them before, requirements for DCGS take on a new meaning at the 11th hour.

Questions:

1. What do I need in general for the proposal?
2. Do I need a table of contents?
3. What should I do if I my thesis is returned for revision?
4. What are the requirements for thesis readers?
5. How long should the bio be for outside readers?
6. Do our readers need to see and sign our proposals before we turn them in to DCGS?
7. If so, what happens if
   1. they are out of town before the deadline?
   2. we can't get them a draft (or they can't read it) before the deadline?
   3. they haven't yet committed before the deadline?
8. If two of our readers are currently out of town, is it ok to get their signatures on two separate pages?
9. Can they fax us back the cover page with their signature on it?

Answers:

1. you must submit the original (clipped either binder or paper) and 9 stapled copies. Copies can be single or double sided.
2. remember that the body of the proposal is limited to 5 pages. That's five pages. Do follow this guideline.
3. the proposal must have an abstract, table of contents and page numbers - if any of those are missing we will not accept it.
4. If your proposal is done early - turn it in! No sense waiting until the last minute.

Your thesis Proposal must have a table of contents. If there is no table of contents, it will not be accepted.

If your proposal is returned for revision you MUST highlight where revisions appear, i.e., to clearly indicate that you've addressed DCGS concerns.

(see excerpt below from the thesis proposal outline document handed out at the beginning of the semester)
"The proposal must be signed by:
-- your advisor: (asst. professor or research associate at MIT, minimum)
-- two (or more) readers: (of assistant professor or research associate rank, minimum).
At least two of the members must be from MIT, and at least one from the Media Arts & Sciences Program or Media Lab, but with only one member from the students own research group. Exceptions can be approved only by DCGS."

(see excerpt below from the thesis proposal outline document handed out at the beginning of the semester)

"Brief introductions of any non-Media Lab readers should be included as references"

Do our readers need to see and sign our proposals before we turn them in to DCGS?

Yes, your proposal when you submit it for DCGS review should already be signed by your advisor and two readers.

If you do not have a commitment from a reader and/or haven't been able to provide them with a copy of your proposal you cannot turn it in for DCGS review. The reader when you do get them and provide a copy of the proposal will in all likelihood request changes or offer input and those should be incorporated before DCGS review.
Other issues regarding readers will be dealt with on a case by case basis - please contact Linda if you have a particular situation or any other questions.

Yes this is okay but eventually you will need to obtain all original signatures on one page!

Yes for immediacy sake you can have them fax signtures back BUT eventually you will need to obtain all original signatures on one page! So, consider getting the signature of one "far-away" person, and use that same page for all others' signatures.