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[Python-Dev] Looking for master thesis ideas involving Python

Brett C. bac at OCF.Berkeley.EDU
Thu Oct 30 21:01:42 EST 2003 
Martin v. Löwis wrote:
> Brett C. wrote:
> 
>>> Whether it is too large for a Masters thesis I don't know. Does a
>>> Masters thesis require *success* in the stated goal? I've been
>>> thinking about doing my own Masters in the not-too-distant future if
>>> I can find the time ...
>>>
>>
>>
>> Success as in what you set out to do was actually beneficial?  No, 
>> just as long as something is learned.  Successful as actually 
>> finishing the darn thing?  Yes.
> 
> 
> He actually meant "success in the stated goal". I.e. if you go out to
> implement free threading, would it be considered as a failure of the
> Master's project if you come back and say: "I did not actually do that"?
> 

Ah, OK.  My mistake.

> My answer is "it depends": If you did not do that, and, for example,
> explain why it *can't* be done, than this is a good thesis, provided you
> give qualified scientific rationale for why it can't be done. If you
> say you did not do it, but it could be done in this and that way if
> you had 50 person years available, then this could be a good thesis
> as well, provided the strategy you outline, and the rationale for
> computing the 50 person years is convincing. If you just say, "Oops,
> I did not finish it because it is too much work", then this would be
> a bad thesis.
> 

I would have to agree with that assessment.  Just have to convince my 
thesis adviser.  =)

-Brett
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