Original Contribution | Contextualization | Dissemination

By completing a thesis, every DHI student makes an original contribution to our human collective. There are several ways your thesis may achieve this:

• Original research that conforms to the standards and methods of an academic discipline

  • • Data collection and/or analysis

    • Primary source interpretation and/or analysis

    • Fieldwork via interviews or observations

    • Experiment

• Interdisciplinary research that combines the methods and/or content of two or more disciplines

• Creative production or activity

  • • Producing and exhibiting original works of art

    • Composing and performing an original piece

• The application of knowledge in new ways or situations

  • • Invention

    • Community engagement

    • Problem-solving

In addition to an original contribution, every DHI Thesis must address context. In academic work this is usually known as a literature review, but elements like artist’s statements might also contextualize thesis work. Contextualizing your work means asking: “How have others answered this or related questions? How does my answer compare to theirs?” Contextualization may extend beyond the content or topic of your thesis to your methodology or approach.

Finally, every DHI student disseminates their contribution in the wider world. At a minimum, students present their thesis work on campus. The DHI encourages students to seek broader audiences via publication, conferences, and digital platforms. Dissemination allows your work to shine on, seed new ideas, and foster connections.