Module manager: Dr N. Kıvılcım Yavuz
Email: N.K.Yavuz@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
MEDV5110M Research Methods
This module is not approved as an Elective
Interdisciplinary research is essential to Medieval Studies, as medieval culture does not divide itself into modern disciplinary categories. This module introduces you to sources, approaches and tools for the study of the Middle Ages which will allow you pursue your own research interests across a wide range of topics and disciplines. The module offers you training in core skills and use of resources applicable to a wide range of subjects in Medieval Studies. Individual classes will address specific problems encountered by students at this level and practical guidance in solving these, as well as introducing you to specific research methodologies, theoretical approaches and resources in a number of different disciplines relevant to Medieval Studies, drawing on the medieval holdings of the Brotherton Library and Special Collections.
This module is intended to help you make the transition from undergraduate study, by introducing you to a wider range of research methodologies which transcend a single discipline, and to allow you to gain greater confidence in managing more independent research at postgraduate level. The module introduces you to the breadth of possible sources and approaches in Medieval Studies, giving you exposure and access to the specific resources and collections available to you at and around Leeds, showcasing what is unique and exciting about studying the Middle Ages at Leeds.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes specific to the discipline:
1. Analyse approaches to primary materials of different kinds, such as written sources, material objects, including manuscripts, and modern editions and translations of medieval texts
2. Recognise and analyse a range of interdisciplinary research methodologies and approaches to the study of the medieval past
3. Identify key debates within specific topics in Medieval Studies
4. Systematically use, appraise and apply a wide range of bibliographies, reference works and other aids to research in Medieval Studies
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
5. Appraise different arguments and perspectives, using supporting evidence to form opinions, arguments, theories and ideas [Critical Thinking]
6. Find, evaluate, organise and share information across a variety of formats and media [Digital Skills]
7. Communicate key arguments and ideas to a range of audiences [Work-Ready Skills]
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 2 | 0.2 | 0.4 |
| Seminar | 10 | 2 | 20 |
| Private study hours | 279.6 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 20.4 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 300 | ||
You will present an outline of your project proposal in class and will receive feedback on this from tutors, allowing you to refine and focus your proposal. Homework and in-class exercises will provide feedback for those elements of the module covered by the essay questions. Students will also have the opportunity to discuss their essay plan in a 1-2-1 meeting with the tutors.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Project Proposal | 50 |
| Coursework | Essay | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
The resit will take the same form as original assessment (in the case of essay, this will involve choosing a different essay question).
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 24/07/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team