Historical Theory and Research

Subject 131-418 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 4 (Undergraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

Semester 2, - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable


Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: A 1.5-lecture and a 1-hour tutorial per week
Total Time Commitment: 2.5 contact hours/week , 6 additional hours/week. Total of 10 hours per week.
Prerequisites: Admission to the Postgraduate Diploma or the BA (Honours) in History.
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Coordinator

Dr Mary Tomsic

Contact

Professor Joy Damousi

j.damousi@unimelb.edu.au

Subject Overview: This subject explores a range of social theories and methodologies which have influenced the writing of history since the Enlightenment, including empiricism, Marxism, cultural history, postcolonialism, feminism and poststructuralism. The subject also examines the task of writing history; the archival and bibliographical practices upon which history writing is based; and the creative act of transforming historical sources into interpretative narratives to communicate to others. Students should encounter knowledges, skills and practices which provide a valuable basis for independent critical inquiry and research-based writing.
Objectives:
  • be introduced to significant issues in the theory and practice of history;
  • develop skills in research and writing as a preparation for the fourth-year honours thesis.
Assessment: A theory essay of 2500 words 45% (due during the semester), an essay of 2500 words 45% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 10%.
Prescribed Texts:
A subject reader will be available at the beginning of semester.
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:
  • show an advanced understanding of the changing knowledge base in the specialist area;
  • demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;
  • demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument;
  • have an appreciation of the design, conduct and reporting of original research.
Related Course(s): Diploma in Arts (History)
Related Majors/Minors/Specialisations: History
History
History
Medieval & Renaissance Studies
Renaissance and Early Modern Studies

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