This module plots the history of Modern Britain from the early nineteenth century to the end of the twentieth, taking in critical moments, movements, individuals and 'isms.' It looks at how industrialism, urbanisation, democratic politics, war, imperialism and mass culture shaped modern Britain and explores history from political, social, cultural, economic and environmental perspectives. Subjects include: industrialisation and its critics; public health and the city; Victorian politics and radical protest; science, nature and the non-human world; suffrage and sexuality; media and modernity; war and society; the welfare state; decolonisation and immigration; riots and policing; consensus and counterculture; nationalism, devolution and Europe; Thatcherism and the rise of New Labour.
Private Study: 260
Contact Hours: 40
Total: 300
Main assessment methods
Written Assignment 1 Plan (250 words) – 5%
Written Assignment 1 (1,500 words) – 25%
Short Exercise (750 words or equivalent) – 15%
Written Assignment 2 (1,500 words) – 25%
Thematic Timed Essay (2,000 words) – 30%
Reassessment methods
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
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate a familiarity with the main political and socio-cultural developments in the history of Modern Britain since c.1830, as well as the skills needed to understand, evaluate, contextualise and communicate their knowledge of history effectively.
2 Engage with the disciplines of political, social, cultural and environmental history and their various methodological approaches.
3 Access a range of primary and secondary sources relevant to modern British history and present the results.
4 Demonstrate skills of conceptualisation, reflexivity, critical thought and epistemological awareness.
5 Exercise an understanding of different historical approaches and degrees of bias as well as demonstrating an awareness of the methodological complexities in the historical record itself.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate analytical and reflective skills and the ability to express ideas and arguments using a variety of methods and skills which can be transferred to other areas of study or employment.
2 Consider critically relevant intellectual concepts as well as differences of opinion and interpretation both in the past and among historians. Students will also be encouraged to develop their own ability to identify and solve problems.
3 Utilise problem-solving skills, and the ability to work both independently and within groups. Students will engage in independent work, using library resources, and will practise and improve their skills in time management, historical research, organisation and analysis of material, and communication.
4 Communicate concepts effectively and to a range of audiences, using a variety of methods.
5 Demonstrate communication and IT skills.
None
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.
