History
The History of Now
Module code: V1367
Level 4
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Seminar, Lecture
Assessment modes: Essay, Group presentation
Historical memory is constantly contested, and this is no less true in today’s society. Our understanding of events and movements that attract public attention – from economic cycles to social trends and global conflicts – always relies heavily on a study of past events. Whether we are searching for roots and causes, or for continuities and differences, or just for lessons learned but then forgotten, history retains a central role in the way we understand today’s world.
On this module, you’ll consider the history of the 21st century, exploring what we can learn about the present through our analysis of the past, and vice versa. By focusing less on ‘what is history?’ and more on ‘what is history for’, you’ll address central questions of contemporary history practice, considering the layers of the event, the discipline and our lives.
You’ll develop:
- a firm historical perspective on current affairs
- an awareness of historical methods
- an enhanced understanding of your own approach to history.
Module learning outcomes
- Understand the extent to which analysis of the past can illuminate the present and vice versa by exploring key events and themes in contemporary history.
- Demonstrate historical skills through working co-operatively to produce a group research project.
- Locate their own work within the wider context of historical practice by writing reflexively on their own approach to contemporary history.
- Develop employable skills by communicating research findings and constructing a coherent argument in a range of forms: in independent study, seminar discussion, collaborative group work, formal presentation and written reflection.