This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The module will explore the nature of the nature of armoured warfare. It will reveal how quickly advocates of these new machines developed theories of armoured warfare and how these were applied to the battlefield. It will show the supposed decline of the tank and heavy armour in the years since the collapse of the Communist Bloc, only to be given a new lease of life by the two Gulf Wars. The course will also look at the cultural ideas behind the tank, how it has seeped into the imagination as a symbol of modernity and change: for example, the crucial importance of tanks to images of the Hungarian uprising in 1956 and to the Beijing protests of 1989.
Private Study: 270
Contact Hours: 30
Total: 300
Autumn or Spring
Main assessment methods
Essay 1 3,000-words 40%
Essay 2 3,000-words 40%
Presentation 10-minutes 20%
Reassessment methods
Reassessment Instrument: 100% coursework
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages: https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Understand, evaluate, contextualise and communicate effectively their knowledge of history.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the theories and practice of armoured warfare since the development of the modern tank in 1916.
3. Engage with political, social and military history and their various methodological approaches.
4. Improve skills appropriate to level 5 and 6 students by through setting them the completion of specific, differentiated tasks.
5. Access a range of sources of information and present the results.
6. Demonstrate skills of conceptualisation, reflexivity, critical thought and epistemological awareness.
7. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the past and particular aspects of the historiography and methodology, assisting them in other courses.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Communicate complex concepts effectively both orally and through written work. They will acquire the ability to further develop skills they have already gained, which will be of use to them in future study or occupations.
2. Develop communications skills (S of H, Transferable Skills 1), the ability to integrate numerical and statistical information (S of H, Transferable Skills 2), and to provide skills in information technology.
3. Work both independently and with groups.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
