What will I learn on this module?
History is not only characterised by knowledge and understanding of past developments, but also by a broad range of skills and methods that are directly applicable to academic research. Within this wider context, this module will give you a firm grounding in the skills and methods needed for the study of history, introducing you to a range of source materials from a broad chronological spectrum. In so doing, the module explores traditions in criticism and explains the ways in which sources can be read and utilised. The module is structured along five ‘core skills’ blocks (Writing History, Handling Sources, Approaches to History, Researching & Interpreting History, and Feedback and Careers) which progress logically from each other and provide students with ample opportunities to engage with how historians make history. The first block introduces you to how to study and write history through an analysis of the historian’s key skills. The block also develops skills in three areas: (1) writing history; (2) reading history (3) researching history. The second block examines key approaches to historical sources. In addition to allowing you to demonstrate the skills gained in block one, the block concentrates on how to find primary sources, how to read them, and how to deploy them in written work. Block three considers key conceptual approaches to the past, including race, class and gender. Block four draws the skills you have learnt in a concentrated study of a single secondary source book. . The final block introduces you to careers in and beyond History, and asks you to reflect on your progress over the year. You will develop a critical capacity to scrutinize sources and interpretations of the past.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn on this module by attending weekly one-and- a half-hour seminars that include demonstration, class discussion and lecture elements. The seminars also give you as much time as possible to develop your reading, writing and analytical skills. Seminars will enhance this practical aspect and allow you to work on the assessments for Making History, one of which is group-based. The remaining three are completed by individuals working independently.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Academic support is provided by your seminar tutor and module convenor. Both will be available through office hours, email correspondence and, in the case of the tutor, seminars and workshops. Your peers will provide you with a collaborative learning environment, an environment that will be encouraged and nurtured by the several group-work assessments and tasks that are built into the module. Feedback will be given by the tutor in the seminars, and each student will receive written feedback on their assessments for this module. Academic literature and other resources will be provided to you via the e-learning portal.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Demonstrate the ability to locate and evaluate secondary and primary sources for a research project.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
2. Exhibit enhanced analytical and organisational skills in presenting the primary source material gathered.
3. Communicate research findings effectively and fluently in writing and verbally.
4. Demonstrate the ability to present historical data in different ways.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative, self-organisation and time-management.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed both in terms of your ability to work independently and as part of a team. There are four summative assessments for this module:
1. A 750-word-equivalent referencing and essay evaluation exercise (15%) MLOs 3, 5
2. A 1,000-word critical review of a source type and primary source example (20%). MLOs 1-5
3. Group presentation and 1,000 word group analysis of an object relating to local history (25%). MLOs 1-5
4. A 1,250-word book review (40%). MLOS 3-5
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.
Course info
UCAS Code QV31
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Humanities
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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