Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Synopsis The subject introduces students to the methodologies of history and political science. It focuses on the development of a critical approach to research and method in history, political science and the social sciences. Students will develop the ability to apply a critical and analytical approach to questions on the nature of assumptions, facts, values, objectivity, hypotheses, quantification, causation and explanation. Students are required to prepare a research paper on an original history or politics topic drawn from an issue in the methodology of history or politics or from a general area of interest in either of these disciplines. The research essay will involve the use of primary sources, data bases, interviews, survey work and/or the use of statistical packages.
Assessment Seminar paper (1500 words): 30% + Method essay (1500 words): 30% + Research essay (3000 words): 40%