Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit provides students with a broad understanding of the nature and practice of history and politics. The subject aims to encourage students to critically examine different theoretical approaches and to reflect on how these influence their own work. Students will also learn about historical and political research methods and will be required to critically examine their own methods of interpreting sources and writing about historical and political issues and events.

Objectives

This unit is designed to equip students with an understanding of important theories and to provide knowledge of and skills in historical and political research methods.

Students successfully completing this subject will be able to demonstrate skills in:

1. Formulating a viable research question around which an argument can be constructed, and identifying a central focus with clear parameters for research.

2. Locating primary and secondary sources, and carrying out independent research.

3. Providing and critically analyzing evidence in support of an argument.

4. Reflecting upon the difficulties of objectivity in history and politics and the importance of analyzing the contexts in which texts and data are produced.

5. Reviewing historical/political texts, questioning conclusions and recognizing historical and political debates.

6. Developing a structured project with a logical introduction and conclusion and presenting a sustained argument based largely on documentary sources.

7. Utilizing conventions in academic writing by providing correct citation, footnoting and bibliographic details.

Assessment

Research Proposal (1000 words): 35%
Literature Review (1000 words): 25%
Research Essay (2500 words): 40%

Contact hours

2 hours per week (1 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial)

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

History-politics

Prerequisites

12 points of second year history-politics

Prohibitions

GSC3504