Course overview
This is a compulsory coursework subject for all History Honours students. It comprises a series of reflections on the nature of history as a form of knowledge (theory) and the ways in which historians acquire that knowledge (method). It examines the possibilities and pitfalls of using a variety of sources of historical evidence (such as letters and oral testimony), and explores some of the ideological underpinnings of particular approaches to history (such as feminism, Marxism, and postmodernism). During the course, students will be exposed to a range of approaches to researching and writing history. They will learn about how to use primary sources located in archival institutions, and consider the potential and possible problems with using documentary, oral, and visual sources of evidence in writing their own historical works. They will discover why feminist, Marxist and empiricist historians often disagree with each other, even when discussing the same event or topic. They will be introduced to different approaches to writing a thesis, enhancing their skills in critical analysis along the way. And they will ponder questions such as: `is it possible to be objective?', `what is the nature of historical truth', `is memory a reliable source of evidence?' and so forth.
Course learning outcomes
- Demonstrate a detailed and high-level understanding of a particular historiography or historical problem.
- Recognise a wide range of methodologies, conceptual approaches and domains of knowledge when applied to the past.
- Identify, analyse, evaluate relevant primary and secondary sources to construct evidence based arguments and produce independent historical research.
- Think independently and critically about the methodologies that are used by historians, and to apply (and, if necessary, adapt) these methodologies to understanding the past.
- Communicate effectively, in a range of spoken and written formats, and to demonstrate a thorough grasp of the scholarly conventions of the discipline of history.
- Contribute productively to group-based activities, both as a participant and also in leadership roles.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the use of a range of contemporary technologies to conduct research, communicate results and communicate with others.
- Demonstrate the skills of a historian which are appropriate for performing a range of professional roles, undertaking leadership positions, and sustaining lifelong learning.
- Demonstrate a sensitivity to the diversity of historical cultures and the ethical implications of historical enquiry within a global context.
- Develop a critical, self-reflective approach to the study of history, based on respect and mutual responsibility.