 
|
What is the Synthesis Project?
The purpose of the Synthesis Project is for the student to learn how to conduct inquiry into a narrowly defined topic of relevance to the profession of physical therapy. Specifically, through supervised group work, students will learn how to construct an operationally-feasible proposition for inquiry, how to develop a plan of action, how to make observations about that proposition, and how to interpret and conclude from those observations. The conclusions will be intended to serve as a vehicle to integrate the new information with (a) that existing in the narrow field and also (b) that acquired over the course of the program at Northwestern. (back to top) |
Is this course required?
Yes. This course is graded as Pass/Fail. Every student must pass this course before graduating from the program. (back to top) |
Do I get credit for completing this course?
5.5 units of credit are awarded upon completion of the synthesis project. (back to top) |
How long does the course run?
Projects are selected in the first fall trimester and projects continue until May of the final year of the program. This is approximately 21 months. (back to top) |
What will I do while working on the project?
You will formulate a narrow research hypothesis or tightly focused, purposive project; review specifically-related literature; perform a cost analysis (budget) and procure necessary resources; develop a feasible plan of action and method for achieving successful completion of the project; defend the project proposal verbally and modify the plan according to feedback received; implement the plan according to agreed upon method of action; perform primary data-gathering and data analysis; present final project to peers and engage in scholarly discussion. Read what Suzanne Semanson, Class of 2006 has to say about research. (back to top) |
Do I have to come up with my own project idea?
No. Projects are developed by full-time faculty of Dept. of PTHMS and offered to students in the first trimester. Each project represents a faculty’s primary area of scholarly activity and so the project choices represent an opportunity for students to be involved in an important activity. In some cases, a student may approach a faculty member about an idea that they have for developing a project. Read what Sonia Palmer, Class of 2007 has to say about synthesis projects. (back to top) |
Can I choose the partners in my project group?
In most cases, no. Groups are formed by a matching process between each student’s particular interests and the faculty’s needs. (back to top) |
What types of projects are available?
There are basically three types of projects to choose from:
1. Research projects (both quantitative and qualitative; lab based and clinical)
2. Program development projects (educational and clinical)
3. Advocacy projects
Depending on faculty and student interest, there may not be an offering from one of these categories. (back to top) |
What are some examples of recent projects?
- Effects of limb load on gait initiation in persons with Parkinson’s disease
- Professional cyclists who have a more comprehensive understanding of pre-season training methods will experience less injury during the pre-season period
- Factors determining exercise behaviors in breast cancer survivors: A 12-18 month follow-up to an upper extremity resistive training program
- An evaluation of the alumni dedicated to assisting physical therapist students (ADAPTS) program at Northwestern University
- Physical assessment of competitive gymnasts: Reliability and validity of the Gymnastics Functional Measurement Tool
- Use of electrical stimulation to improve arm function after stroke
- The road to administration: Career development experiences of female physical therapists working in healthcare administration
- Contribution of intracortical inhibition to rigidity in Parkinson’s disease
- Developing cultural competence in early career physical therapists
- Quantitative evaluation of upper extremity discoordination in spastic hemiparetic cerebral palsy
- Reaching performance using a new seat design in wheelchair users with spinal cord injury(back to top) |
