HIST 21700 - Historical Methods

This course provides students with an introduction to the foundational methods of historical inquiry, including the research process, analysis of primary and secondary sources, and the conventions of historical writing. The capstone project for the course will be a substantive research paper through which students will demonstrate their understanding of these historical methods. The course also helps students take the first steps of professional development as historians through the creation of a curriculum vitae and a personal statement. History majors should take this course before they take any research- or writing-intensive 300-level History courses.

Preparation for Course
P: ENGL 13100 or Equivalent.

Cr. 3.
Notes
Restricted to students majoring in history (BA degree program) or consent of instructor for non-history majors.
Student Learning Outcomes
1. Read and analyze primary sources.
2. Evaluate the argument and quality of secondary sources.
3. Conduct historical research using appropriate primary and secondary sources, learn to narrow your subject into a topic, and write a proposal.
4. Conduct historical research, using the library and the internet.
5. Construct a historical argument featuring appropriate evidence and careful analysis.
6. Demonstrate an understanding of the conventions of historical writing, including the use of thesis statements, topic sentences, and the appropriate citation methods, learning to combine analysis and narrative.
7. Develop professional skills, such as creating a curriculum vitae, crafting a personal statement, and exploring career options.