Module manager: To be confirmed
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Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This is a skills-based core module that focuses on techniques for analysing primary sources and engaging with historiographical debates, which are crucial aspects of the historian’s craft. You will develop the capabilities needed to tackle higher-level modules and the Final Year Project. The primary sources and secondary scholarship are anchored in specific topics (“strands”) that reflect the tutor’s area of expertise.
This module aims to introduce you to the study, use and assessment of primary source material in the discipline of international history, and to the nature, development and significance of historiographical debate through the critical assessment of associated secondary sources. The two-hour seminar format allows for interactive, tutor-led discussion in which you engage intensively with hands-on primary-source analysis, and is particularly effective for integrating primary-source and historiographical work.
On successful completion of the module you will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Critically analyse key events, personalities and themes relating to the content of the strand;
2. Evaluate historiographical trends and debates relevant to the strand;
3. Interpret primary sources related to the strand accurately and insightfully.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module you will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
4. Critically interpret sources and other forms of media in a range of genres;
5. Articulate evidence-based argument and interpretation.
6. Develop ideas on a given historical topic through engagement with both primary and secondary sources.
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 | 179.6 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 20.4 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
You will be set a formative gobbet exercise prior to the first assignment. This provides the opportunity for you to practice primary-source analysis techniques, which will build up to the coursework assessments. Time will be set aside in class towards the end of term to discuss the assessed essay task and for in-class exercises (guided by the tutor) focused on finding sources and essay planning. You will also have the opportunity to receive additional guidance via individual meetings with your tutor.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Primary Source Analysis | 40 |
| Coursework | Essay | 60 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 29/04/2025
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