Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The module embraces a comparative approach towards the History of the British Isles at an advanced level. These aims are pursued through the analysis, discussion, and application of theoretical models to specific historical case studies.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module will explore the study of the impact of ideas and influences throughout British history, such as political thought, and social and cultural values. Seminar subjects may include: liberalism, socialism, feminism, conservatism, consumerism, environmentalism, Marxism and communism, collectivism, absolutism, Keynesianism, social democracy, communitarianism, fascism, republicanism and religion.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of the module students should be able to have: gained insights into the consideration and interpretation of ideas and influences throughout British history. They will have gained insights into the consideration and interpretation of political, social, cultural, and economic trends in British history through a reading of a selection of significant texts. Students will have: had an opportunity to use selected primary sources and a range of secondary reading so as to be able to engage in current critical debates at an advanced level; acquired a systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of historical scholarship; displayed originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline; practised conceptual understanding that enables the student to evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship in the discipline; and to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, to propose new hypotheses.

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of the module students should be able to have: developed associated skills in research, critical reading and reasoning, sustained discussion and appropriate presentation of the results; a comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship; dealt with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences; demonstrated self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level; continued to advance their knowledge and understanding, and developed new skills to a high level; and will have the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of: initiative and personal responsibility, and the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Seminars encourage independent study and promote improvements in oral communication, problem-solving skills and adaptability. Seminars at MA level allow students to share perspectives on their reading and personal research interests, as well as to engage in an advanced-level critical discussion of the problems and issues surrounding the theme under review. Structured introductions to the explored topics will be provided on Canvas. The drop-in session helps students with their assessment by providing them with an opportunity to discuss their research essay with the relevant lecturer.

In the event that on-campus sessions need to be reduced, there is the capacity to hold live seminar discussions online and retain timetabled slots.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The formative essay plan supports students' preparation of the summative research essay through the provision of feedback on their ideas and intended argument. The research essay evaluates the acquisition of a clear general knowledge of a specific idea and/or influence in British History, as well as the ability to locate and synthesise relevant information and express complex ideas in written form using appropriate scholarly sources. The essay assesses students’ capacity to interpret associated primary sources, and their ability to use such evidence to construct a compelling argument. Work submitted during the delivery of the module forms a means of determining student progress. All submitted work tests intended knowledge and skills outcomes and develops key skills in research, reading, and writing at an advanced level.

This module can be made available to Erasmus students only with the agreement of the Head of Subject and of the Module Leader. This option must be discussed in person at the beginning of your exchange period. No restrictions apply to study-abroad, exchange and Loyola students.

All Erasmus students at Newcastle University are expected to do the same assessment as students registered for a degree.

General Notes

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