The main focus will be on self-instruction, within a tightly structured framework and relying largely (but not exclusively) on materials supplied. Week by week you will work through self-instructional course materials (delivered via blackboard) which provides a framework and focus for reading key texts and papers and undertaking specific tasks as set.This work will be undertaken on an individual basis but at various points you will be expected to interact and share material with other students in your learning group and your tutor (via blackboard).

A computer for accessing Blackboard, websites and electronic journals. Course texts and course pack.

This module introduces students to key concepts in historical thought, specifically related to the study of international history in the twentieth century. The concepts studied are nationalism, ideology, imperialism, modernisation and globalisation. All are crucial to our understanding of history at a global and international level and together they form the basis for research and evaluation in the MA International History as a whole. The module will help students to transend the narrowly or regional studies of history and remove some of the limitations inherent in such a narrow approach.The module will consider the problems of definition, the historical background and evolution of the concept and finally the application of the concepts by historians over time.

R.Eccleshall, V. Geoghegan, et al. Political Ideologies: An Introduction. Routledge, 1994.M. Waters, Globalisation. Routledge, 1995.P. Alter, Nationalism. Edward Arnold, 1989.P. Pomper, R. H. Elphick, R. T. Vann, World History. Ideologies, Structures, Identities. Blackwell, 1998.

The first essay will require you to apply conceptual and theoretical insight to historical or contemporary material specific to the course. [Learning Outcomes 1,3]

The second essay will require you to show your overall appreciation of the concerns of the module. It will enable you to demonstrate your comprehensive understanding of the module and your flexibility in applying your knowledge to specific concerns. [Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4]

1 X 1000 word critical review (20%). The Critical Review will require you to read, review and analyze an academic journal article or chapter.

The participation grade ensures you get credit for the work you do on the weekly discussion board. The more you engage, the higher your participation grade will be [meets learning outcomes 1,2,3]