1. Li-Tang Tsai, PT, MSc. PhD student/Research team member Gerontology Research Center University of Jyväskylä DEVELOPING MASTER’S THESIS PROPOSAL

2. Guided by Thesis Seminar I (1 st Semester) Orientation (15.9.2009) Aims of the Seminar What is a Thesis in general? The process? The topic? General info Home work: a look at thesis already completed in gerontology (in international master’s programmes at the faculty) Research Project Presentations (22.9.2009) 3 projects suitable for conducting master’s thesis Home work: Personal ’memo’ 2

3. Personal “Memo” What is your personal starting point? Previous experience (strengths, challenges) Methods, Writing Current interests, ’hot topics’  potential linkages with the research projects available? Before 15.9. Interest Area: Exercise Effects on Functional Capacity in Elderly Effects of Exercise Counseling on Exercise Habits in Elderly 3

4. Personal “Memo” After 22.9 Exercise counseling project Effects of Physical Activity Counseling on Balance among Older People Effects of Exercise Counseling on Changes of Exercise Habits in Elderly Asymmetry project The Effects of Equalizing Lower Extremity Muscle Strength on Postural Balance among Older Hip Fracture Patients The Effects of Equalizing Lower Extremity Muscle Strength on Body Composition among Older Hip Fracture Patients 4

5. 5 Research Plan (8.12.2009) Tentative Title Changes in Attitude toward Physical Activity after Exercise Counseling among Older Adults Research Background Research Question Study Design and Data Collection Theoretical Basis of Exercise Counseling Possible Limitations Discussion