2026/27 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

MODL3620 Decolonial Approaches

20 Credits Class Size: 32

Module manager: Prof Nina Wardleworth
Email: n.a.wardleworth@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2026/27

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module provides an introduction to decolonial methodologies across the arts and humanities. It will empower students to examines the ideological bases of the assumptions that underpin university- based teaching and research. Students will be introduced to non-Eurocentric epistemologies and research methods to help guide their own learning. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.

Objectives

This module will equip students with an understanding of decolonial approaches to research, which they can apply to their own research projects and wider studies. This will entail an investigation of Eurocentric norms of Learning and Teaching in university studies. It will centre indigenous and marginalised knowledge systems. Students will be encouraged to take a self-reflective approach to their own positionality as researchers, though class learning activities as well as in the assessment.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will be able to:

1. Analyse how thinkers, writers and activists critique Eurocentric critical concepts and methodologies from a variety of positions
2. Locate and critically evaluate non-Eurocentric sources of knowledge, assessing their relevance and methodological implications for decolonial research.
3. Devise an appropriate decolonial research methodology
4. Reflect critically on their own assumptions, research methods and positionality, identifying areas for methodological development
5. Construct a well-structured argument supporting their chosen research methodology and evidence this using primary and/or secondary sources


Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Supervision 2 0.4 0.8
Lecture 11 1 11
Seminar 9 1 9
Private study hours 179.2
Total Contact hours 20.8
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 200

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

In seminar discussions.
Feedback on the literature review will feed into reflective log.
Students will be offered formative feedback on plans for both the literature review and the reflective log during their tutorial.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Coursework Literature Review 40
Coursework Reflective Log 60
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

Reflective log can be submitted in a written format (including blogs), or audio podcast or video presentation.

Reading List

Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list

Last updated: 30/04/2026

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team