New Rules Restrict Independent Study

Elizabeth James '83 is writing a "distorted dream-like novel explaining the universe in terms of physics for the layman." If it is good enough, she says that she hopes to get it published. While James is composing fantastic tales, Craig Hurty '83 is reading all about such literary works.

James and Hurly are two of 29 undergraduates participating in independent studies under the tutelage of Hugh Flick, lecturer of Folklore and Mythology.

In all, 231 independent projects have been sponsored this semester, with the music department overseeing more than one-third of them, according to statistics released by the Registrar's Office.

Flick adds that other Folk and Myth related projects he is overseeing include the study of wizardry in fantasy literature, of oral tradition in the New Testament, and of the changing image of the Persian epic, Shahnamen.

Although most projects can be done without guidance, Flick encourages students to engage in Independent Studies for the one-to-one interaction with a professor about how to design their projects.

Flick says that his involvement with the Independent Study Program will be greatly reduced next fall as a result of recent changes in the program's guidelines.

According to the new rules, Flick adds that the projects may no longer be literature-based but rather will have to focus primarily on field work.

The new changes will insure that Independent Studies are substantive, academic experiences, says John R. Marquand, secretary of the Faculty Council which passed the revisions last December.

Marquand adds that starting next fall students will have to write a midterm report and a final analytic paper on their projects.

While most of the 90 music applications received each semester are for piano or voice lessons, James D. Yannatos, senior lecturer on music, says that he has approved proposals for lessons on the fiddle, recorder and even the bagpipes. "I have mixed feelings on the Independent Studies," Yannatos says, adding, "some students are vitally interested in pursuing musical interests" while others abuse the program's lax requirements.

Rex Flynn '85 says he transferred to Harvard from Oberlin Conservatory to major in Applied Mathematics. Since his arrival in Cambridge this fall, Flynn adds that he has returned to his first love--the piano.

Having switched his major to music, Flynn says he is doing an independent study of the plano with a teacher outside of Harvard. "Independent Study has made a tremendous difference in my workload," Flynn notes, adding that he practices three hours each day.

Other students currently engaged in musically-related Independent Studies have outlined a less rigorous music schedule. Kristine E. Anastasio '85 says she has committed herself to a one-hour guitar lesson every week, with one hour of practice each day. "I was surprised at how easy it was to get," Anastasio comments.

"I want a career in cable T.V. and no courses at Harvard can help me," says senior Mark Saltviet. Another one of Flick's proteges. Saltviet created a video tape of popular Cambridge street performer Brother Blue's work last spring as part of an intership with Arlington Cable Systems. Saltviet adds, "Now I can be a social studies major and pursue an internship simultaneously." During his internship, Saltviet says he worked 20-25 hours a week.

Under the new guidelines. Flick says he will only be able to supervise projects like Saltvietzs. Flick, however, adds that he hopes to remain involved with students. "I will continue to make myself available to guide students in reading and to help in their projects."