ATS3092 - Reading and researching history - 2018

The unit investigates past and current approaches to the study and writing of history. We will examine the many ways in which historians have interpreted the past, evaluate different forms of historical evidence, including digital sources, and reflect on the current state of the discipline as well as its continuing relevance. As a capstone, the unit provides the focused training in historical knowledge and skills which we expect graduates to have acquired. As a prerequisite for Honours, this unit provides a crucial methodological foundation for more complex and sophisticated research projects at fourth-year level.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of different conceptual approaches to studying and writing about the past.
2. Be better able to critically assess historical scholarship and relate existing arguments to their own research.
3. Have a deeper understanding of the strengths and limitations of different forms of historical evidence and historical archives.
4. Reflect upon their own role as historians and the knowledge and skills they have developed in their studies.
5. Assess future trends in historical research and writing, particularly digital scholarship.
6. Show skills in independent research and writing, collaborative skills and presentation.
7. Demonstrate greater skills in identifying and analysing different historical sources to construct evidence-based arguments in written, oral or digital form.

Within semester assessment: 70% + Exam: 30%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

History