History
Learning goals for Undergraduates in History
Historians develop many skills in order to practice their discipline. Listed below are four levels of skills which you should expect to develop in courses taken in the Temple University History Department.
GATEWAY AND INTRODUCTORY (1000-LEVEL)
Competencies:
- Basic organization, reading, writing, and discussion skills
- Construction of simple essay arguments using historical evidence (exhibiting a clear sense of chronology, using evidence in support of a clearly stated thesis)
- Comprehension of time and change (understanding continuity and change over time)
- Distinguishing between fact and interpretation (recognizing valid historical sources and their interpretations)
- Use of basic historical and social science concepts
- Recognizing the difference between primary and secondary sources
- Basic understanding of internet and digital library resources, including ability to determine which are appropriate for academic use
2000-LEVEL
Competencies:
- Critical analysis of written materials and historical sources
- Evaluation of primary sources in their historical context
- Analysis of multiple historical factors
- Formulation of analytical questions about historical events
- Demonstration of ability to write an analytical historical essay
- Development of speaking and presentation skills
- Improved ability to use library and other technologically appropriate sources for research
3000-LEVEL
Competencies:
- Comparison of varied interpretations of historical events
- Collection and organization of historical data
- Clarity and precision in writing
- Employment of both primary and secondary sources to construct an historical argument
- Competence in use of analytical concepts and theory
- Competence in understanding different theoretical concepts and their application
- Use of standard methods of citation
- Refined command of library and internet research skills
CAPSTONE AND 4000-LEVEL
Competencies:
In the capstone course the history major demonstrates his or her integrative capacities through an advanced original research project in which the student takes the primary responsibility for framing the research question, carrying out analysis, and producing a polished written work of substantial complexity and quality. By the end of the history capstone course students write and revise a major research paper (usually at least 20 pages or 5000 words exclusive of notes and bibliography). This paper is based on primary sources. Students are required to develop their own arguments based on study of these sources and to juxtapose their arguments with existing interpretations. Students are also required to communicate their chief findings through a formal oral presentation of 8-10 minutes.