2005/06 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
HPSC2305 Introduction to Technological Change in History
10 creditsClass Size: 100
Module manager: Dr Graeme Gooday
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2005/06
Pre-requisite qualifications
20 credits of Level 1 HPSC modules or equivalent.This module is mutually exclusive with
HPSC2500 Technological Change in History HPSC2302 Technological Change in HistoryModule replaces
HPSC2500 Technological Change in HistoryThis module is approved as an Elective
Objectives
By the end of the course students should be able to:i) discuss principal themes in historiography of technology;
ii) show detailed knowledge of two historical case studies on technological change;
iii) critically evaluate historical writing in the case study topics.
Syllabus
General themes: continuity and discontinuity in technological change; evolutionary vs. political historiographies of technology; the comparative explanatory significance of inventors, workers, institutions and consumers.
Two case studies drawn from the following areas:
Communication technologies, e.g. Information technology, Printing press.
Scientific instruments, e.g. Microscope, Diagnostic technologies.
Biomedical technologies, e.g. Contraception & Assisted conception.
Electrical technologies, e.g. Phonograph, Lighting.
Teaching methods
Lectures: 11 x 1 hour;
Seminars: 8 x 1 hour.
Private study
3 hours reading per lecture: 33 hours;6 hours reading per seminar: 48 hours;
Essay preparation: 16 hours.
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Seminar participation and written feedback on essay plan.Methods of assessment
1 x 2,000-word essay: 100%.
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 20/09/2006
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