A Student Progress Report--Model #3

NOTE: When prepared in print format, this memo is more than one page long. Refer to the formatted copy of this example in the classroom computer folder for information about how to set up the printed pages (spacing, margins, second page headings, and so forth). Use this page as a model for content requirements only.

MEMORANDUM

DATE: November 20, 1999

TO: Dr. Susan Fagan, University of Oregon
       Wr 320 Instructor
FROM: Thomas Bartlett

SUBJECT: Progress on Final Research Report


          The purpose of this memo is to report the progress on my final paper for Writing 320. The topic of the research report is gene therapy. Gene therapy as a medical treatment is the placement of beneficial genes into cells of patients for correction of disease or inherited genetic disorders. The first week provided good research results, and I have continued to search the Internet for additional backup information.

Accomplishments in the Last Two Weeks

          During the last two weeks, I have spent the majority of my research time in the library. The subject of gene therapy study and trial on humans has only existed since the early 1990s. Consequently, the quantity and quality of books on the subject are limited. I have found numerous journal and magazine articles on the subject, however. The journal articles have been found in publications such as Nature, Futurist, and The Lancet. Infotrac, the online health reference source, has provided valuable information, while Medline contains mostly specific treatment articles.

          My goal is to write a paper for a general audience to explain the basics of gene therapy. As a result, I have spent considerable time digesting medical and scientific terminology to produce a credible paper.

          I have contacted the Child Development and Rehabilitation Center (CDRC) on the University of Oregon campus. It is affiliated with Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU) in Portland. Geneticists from OHSU make regular visits to the Eugene clinic, and I am awaiting a call regarding an interview.

Problems Encountered in the Last Two Weeks

          The Knight Library does not have as much material on gene therapy as I had hoped. I have also visited the Lane Community College Library. The combination of information from both sources will be adequate for completion of my report. Another problem has been determining what graphic content to include in the report. Consequently, I will wait until completion of the rough draft before making a determination.

Plan for the Next Two Weeks

          I plan to finish reading the gathered material and complete its synthesis by my oral presentation date. I hope to hear from CDRC about an appointment with a geneticist. Note taking and outline work will consume most of my time for the next week. The last week will be spent on the rough draft for peer review.

Conclusion

          I feel confident I will complete my research on gene therapy in time for my oral report. The rough draft and completed report will follow thereafter in order to meet the deadlines set forth in the syllabus.

Last Updated 02/08/00