course-details-portlet

KRIG3100 - Historical research methods

About

New from the academic year 2024/2025

Examination arrangement

Examination arrangement: Take-home exam
Grade: Passed / Not Passed

Evaluation Weighting Duration Grade deviation Examination aids
Take-home exam 100/100 3 days

Course content

What scientific methods do historians use when they study sources, research scientific results, and turn the past into history? The course deals with historical methods, their theoretical assumptions and how methods and choice of empirical data are included in a historical research design that aims to answer research questions. In the arsenal of methods, emphasis is placed on the possibilities and limitations of interpretive document analysis, comparative method as a basis for expanded understanding, and counterfactual analysis as a prerequisite for causal explanations. The course also shows how quantitative methods, and the use of registry data are applicable for the study of behavioral patterns. Source criticism is a common denominator for all methodological approaches and is treated separately. The course also presents ethical aspects related to the research process.

Learning outcome

A candidate who has passed the course is expected to have the following learning outcomes in accordance with the course description, defined as knowledge and skills:

Knowledge

The candidate has

  • knowledge of different kinds of historical sources.
  • knowledge of central methods in historical research processes.
  • knowledge of the components of a historical research design.
  • knowledge of the distinction between theory and method.
  • knowledge of research ethics.

Skills

The candidate has

  • ability to evaluate methods and data for different types of historical investigations.
  • ability to reflect on methodological choices during the research process.
  • ability to set up a consistent research design.
  • ability to formulate a historical presentation based on a selection of sources.
  • awareness of source criticism.
  • awareness of research ethics.

Learning methods and activities

The course is taught via digital platform. The platform can include short lectures, short podcast presentations, talks, and brief written teaching materials. A physical gathering is offered that is practically oriented and which may include lectures, seminar activity and group assignments.

Compulsory assignment: Written course assignment.

Compulsory assignments

  • Written assignment

Further on evaluation

The home exam lasts for three days. The written course assignment must be approved before the student can take the exam. It is possible to take the exam in semesters when the course is not taught.

Specific conditions

Admission to a programme of study is required:
War and Society (MKRIG)

Required previous knowledge

BA in Military Studies, History, Political Science or equivalent. Requires admission to the study programme War and Society (MKRIG).

Course materials

Reading list, literature compendium, and written notes posted on the digital platform.

Credit reductions

Course code Reduction From To
HIST3105 7.5 AUTUMN 2024
More on the course

No

Facts

Version: 1
Credits:  7.5 SP
Study level: Second degree level

Coursework

Term no.: 1
Teaching semester:  AUTUMN 2024

Language of instruction: Norwegian

Location: Trondheim

Subject area(s)
  • History
Contact information
Course coordinator:

Department with academic responsibility
Department of Modern History and Society

Examination

Examination arrangement: Take-home exam

Term Status code Evaluation Weighting Examination aids Date Time Examination system Room *
Autumn ORD Take-home exam 100/100

Release
2024-12-02

Submission
2024-12-05


12:00


12:00

INSPERA
Room Building Number of candidates
  • * The location (room) for a written examination is published 3 days before examination date. If more than one room is listed, you will find your room at Studentweb.
Examination

For more information regarding registration for examination and examination procedures, see "Innsida - Exams"

More on examinations at NTNU