Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

Independent study module involving critical study of prescribed items of ancient evidence.The module aims to provide an opportunity to investigate in some depth selected problems, with appraisal of selected source material and critical examination of current historiography, and to foster research-skills in preparation for the Stage 3 independent study module CAH3000 Portfolio II.

Outline Of Syllabus

Portfolio I is a research-focussed module based principally on study (devised to be taken in conjunction with the postrequisite module Portfolio II). The subject matter of Portfolio I consists of a collection of primary and secondary evidence for commentary supplied in a dossier containing 3 sections:
A: primary evidence: historiographical texts
B: primary evidence: an artefact from the GNM collection
C: primary evidence: either documentary sources or non-historiographical literary texts.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

Students should acquire a detailed knowledge and understanding of specific aspects of ancient historiographical and methodological problems and of a large-scale historical issue.

Intended Skill Outcomes

Development of associated skills in research, critical reading and reasoning, sustained discussion and appropriate presentation of the results.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

This module is a research training module. It is designed to support students in making their first steps into independent research at the same time as developing essential primary source analysis skills. As such, it would be inappropriate and counterproductive for it to have delivery methods equivalent to other modules. Its function is to prepare students, through small research projects, for the large dissertation they have to do in Stage 3. Ideally, therefore, the majority of students will be working independently by the end of the semester. The delivery structures a movement to that point.

Small group teaching of research skills: each of these classes will be based around a sample case study of a skill the students need to complete their own research project. The rationale is that through working in groups the students will be able to develop their skills collaboratively whilst also gaining staff feedback. This will be one step in meeting the intended skill outcomes.


The main element of the module consists of drop-in sessions. The preceding teaching methods will phase out towards the end of the semester - necessary for the inculcation of independent working. But these drop-ins will remain a constant mandatory part of the module through to submission. Their first rationale is to provide the necessary staff support to students making their first steps in independent study. They provide a forum for problems to be addressed and guidance to be given. The group setting ensures all students may benefit from all discussions. They also provide a setting for group-progress to be structured and monitored. The discussions will allow students to share problems and gauge their progress in the tasks as part of the group.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Submitted work tests intended knowledge and skills outcomes, develops key skills in research, reading and writing.

The three separate assessments test different skills developed in the module. The 3,000 word commentary (historiography) develops skills in textual analysis and intertextuality relating to historiographical texts, and includes critical engagement with modern scholarship related to the evidence. The 1,500 word commentary (material culture) develops skills in interpreting and contextualising material evidence, as well as critically engaging with modern scholarship. Finally, the 1,500 word commentary (other evidence) develops epigraphical skills, as well as critical engagement with modern scholarship related to the piece of evidence.

All of the assessments for this module will be submitted and marked online.

This module cannot be made available to exchange students under any circumstances. This applies to Erasmus, study-abroad, exchange proper and Loyola students equally.

General Notes

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