Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

Over the course of the twentieth century, Britain underwent massive political, social and economic transformation. In 1900 the country controlled the largest empire in the history of the world, but two world wars, a depression, decolonization, rapid deindustrialization, as well as major civil and industrial unrest meant that by the 1970s Britain was in serious decline, in some ways the 'sick man of Europe'. Recent years have seen a major revival in its fortunes and influence on the world stage. Drawing on a range of sources, including art, literature and popular culture, this unit traces the story of the rise, decline and re-emergence of the country across a century of rapid change.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit student will:

1. Have a good understanding of the history of twentieth century Britain.
2. Have an understanding of the importance of social movements to processes of political change.
3. Have an understanding of the importance of economic issues to processes of political, social and cultural change.
4. Have an understanding of the importance of culture - including popular culture - to historical research.
5. Be familiar with the research skills and methods of social, cultural and economic historians.
6. Have experience in working with a range of textual, visual and material historical resources.
7. Have further developed their oral and written communication skills, including skills in writing for non-specialist audiences.
8. In addition to the above, students undertaking the unit at level three will have demonstrated the ability to conceive and complete an independent historical research project.

Assessment

Written work: 90%
Class participation: 10%

Chief examiner(s)

Seamus O'Hanlon

Contact hours

12 X one hour lecture plus 12 X one hour tutorial

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

History

Prerequisites

First year sequence in HSY, INT or permission

Prohibitions

HSY2335