Frequently Asked Questions about the Second-Year Paper

A STUDENT'S GUIDE TO THE GERONTOLOGY RESEARCH PRACTICUM
(AKA THE "SECOND YEAR PAPER")

This guide is designed to answer basic questions about the second year paper. Formal, more detailed guidelines are distributed to second year students upon enrollment in GER 726 “Current National Databases in Gerontological Policy Research.” Students are strongly encouraged to discuss the second year paper experience with those students who have already completed the project.

What is the second year paper?

The second year paper is an empirical research paper based on a policy topic. It is intended to demonstrate the student’s proficiency in utilizing national data bases in aging, analyzing research findings, and preparing academic materials of professional journal quality.

When do I begin work on the second year paper?

Work on the second year paper begins at the start of the third semester of full-time study.

Do I begin work on the second year paper before or after the qualifying paper exam?

The second year paper must be completed before a student writes the qualifying paper exam.

How do I prepare for writing the second year paper?

Two classes, Gerontology 726 (Current National Databases in Gerontological Policy Research) and Gerontology 727 (Research Practicum in Gerontology) are designed to aid students while writing the second year paper. GER 726 offers an introduction to national data bases, further development of programming skills, data construction, data merging, treatment of missing data, etc. GER 727 builds upon these skills through actual data analysis. These courses are to be taken by full-time students during the third and fourth semester of study respectively.

Is there an advisor available for assistance?

Dr. Frank Porell serves as an advisor for all students working on the second year paper. Office hours vary by semester. Dr. Porell may be reached at extension 7-7239 or by e-mail at frank.porell@umb.edu.

What database is used?

The database to be used for the paper is chosen on a yearly basis by Dr. Porell. Student interests are taken into consideration in selection of the database.

How is the database chosen?

Databases are chosen based on their suitability for use with a class of students. Such databases have a wide array of variables that can accommodate a variety of topics. In most years, the Health and Retirement Study has been chosen because of the breadth of its information. However, databases that have been used in the past include the Current Population Survey, the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey, and the National Long Term Care Survey.

Do I get to choose what aspect of the database I would like to analyze?

Yes. Students may select the topic they wish to investigate. This choice must be approved by Frank Porell as well as two substantive readers who are associated with the Gerontology Program. Students can specify their preferences for assigned readers. Reader assignments are based on student preferences subject to the constraint that reader assignments are reasonably balanced among faculty members. Final reader assignments are made by Frank Porell in consultation with the Graduate Program Director.

What is the structure of the paper?

The paper is usually divided into sections of a conventional journal article including an Introduction, Background/Literature Review, Data and Methodology, and Results/Discussion.

What is the length of the paper?

Papers range in length from 20 to 40 pages.

When must the paper be finished?

The paper must be completed by the end of the semester in which GER 727 is taken.

Who reviews the paper?

Second year papers are formally reviewed by the two assigned readers. The paper must be accepted by both reviewers to fulfill the Program requirement.

What if my paper is not accepted?

Students have two weeks to revise the paper if it is not accepted following the initial review. After a second review, papers will receive a final pass or fail evaluation. Students whose papers are failed may appeal to the faculty to retake GER 726 and GER 727 and may write a new paper.

Can I apply for the Masters of Gerontology degree after completing my paper?

Yes. Students may apply for the MS degree after they have completed the core curriculum offered to full-time first and second year students and have completed the second year paper.

Can I publish or present the paper upon completion?

Yes. Publication and/or presentation of the paper is strongly encouraged. Papers may be presented at professional conferences or at department colloquia.

Note: Before beginning the second year paper, be sure to pick up a “Second Year Paper Sign-Off Sheet” from Michele Campbell. This form must be signed by both reviewers of your paper, once BEFORE you begin work, and once UPON completion. (The form may be returned to Michele for safekeeping during the interim period.) Return of this form triggers paperwork to the Registrar’s Office and this form is used as proof of completion of the second year paper in partial satisfaction of eligibility requirements for the Masters degree.

Updated 8/2007