The Practicing Historian (HIST*2450)

Code and section: HIST*2450*01

Term: Fall 2017

Instructor: Norman Smith

Details

Please note:  For 2017/18, this course if offered in the Fall semester only.

Course Synopsis:

The Practicing Historian examines the discipline of history, with special focus on developments from the nineteenth century. Students will strengthen critical and creative thinking skills through in-class engagement, critical reading exercises, and the writing of a term paper and two exams. Students will learn how to identify and evaluate primary and secondary sources, and incorporate them into their work. Communication skills will be enhanced through writing as well as through participation in seminar discussions and a presentation. Through the course of the term, students will become familiar with major differences in approaches to the understanding and study of history and will assess their own determinations of changes in the field of history. Global understanding will be enhanced by consideration of the importance of history in various societies around the world. Professional and ethical behaviour will be enhanced through encouraging critical and respectful approaches to varied forms of historical study and through the development of research techniques.

There are generally two lectures and one seminar per week. Free questioning during lectures is encouraged. Regular discussion is expected in seminars. Attendance in the course is recommended for students to maximize their university experience.

Method of Evaluation:

1. Critical Evaluation / Presentation Assignment (10%)
2. Mid-term Exam (25%)
3. Term Paper (25%)
4. Final Exam (30%)
5. Participation (10%)

Required Textbooks and Resources:

Peter Claus and John Marriott. History: An Introduction to Theory, Method and Practice. London: Pearson, 2012.

Please note:  This is a preliminary web course description only. The department reserves the right to change without notice any information in this description. The final, binding course outline will be distributed in the first class of the semester.