2001

Independent Research 2001

Kathryn Bohan

Title: The Female Gothic: Online Course

Mentor: Dr. Rebecca Martin

Abstract: The Female Gothic: Online Course is a study of five novels by authors of the 18th and 19th centuries, exemplifying the principles of the genre of the female gothic.  The key issues discussed are those in the forefront of the female gothic, including: the relationship between men and women, imprisonment of women, marriage, motherhood, relationships between mothers and daughters, control of female characters by other characters, and the use of the supernatural.  This course also explores why the female gothic is seen as separate from the gothic genre as a whole, as well as the societal forces which affected the authors of this genre.  This is a full-length, fourteen-week course which includes lecture material, visual aides, and study questions.  Two-week periods are devoted to each novel, with the remaining weeks providing time for an introduction, lectures connecting issues between the novels, and a summary of the course.

Michael Gaspar

Title:Sustainable Development: A Civil Competency Study

Mentor: Dr. Gregory Julian

Abstract: Since the 1992 Earth Summit, the policymakers of the world have started to insert the ideals and actions of sustainable development at a local, national, regional, and international level.  This study is in three parts.  The first component is the definition, history, and present state of sustainable development.  The second focus is the implementation of these programs at local societies throughout the world through local Agenda 21 programs of action.  Lastly, a case study will be presented demonstrating a crucial element of sustainable development, which is educating youth and preparing them for action for advancing sustainable development in the 21st century.



Alissa Nevoso
Title: The Civil War Era: Women and War, the Limits of Expectations

Mentor: Dr. Ellen Skinner

Abstract: This paper examines a single issue that concerns the Civil War—not why the war was fought, but rather, the role that women played in the war itself.  Featured women are: Sarah Emma Edmonds, Jennie Hodgers, and Dr. Mary Walker.  The conclusion of the paper will explain what occurred after the war ended, and focuses on the expectations of the women that were not met, specifically the right to vote.

Jessica Rubin

Title:Detecting Deceit: Fraud and the Forensic Accountant

Mentor: Dr. Patricia Healy

Abstract: With various types of fraud and white-collar crime cases on the rise, an ever-present need to combat and prevent fraud exists.  In order to advise business on key precautions and to seek out and investigate fraud, a specialized industry has materialized.  Forensic Accounting, a discipline that encompasses accounting, auditing, and investigation represents one of the fastest growing areas in professional services.

Laura Tyring

Title:The Free Trade Agreement Between Mexico and the European Union

Mentor: Dr. Geraldine O’Neill

Abstract: Today, Mexico is a developing country that is improving its economic situation with the help of a new political party (Partido de Acción Nacional) governed by the recently elected president, Mr. Vincente Fox.  One of the major factors of this economic growth is the recent Free Trade Agreement with the European Union.  This paper examines Mexico’s economy and the impact of the Free Trade Agreement.