The purpose of this two-quarter seminar is to guide you through the entire research cycle, from the elaboration of a research idea to the completion of a significant and substantial piece of historical analysis. The seminar facilitates this process by breaking it down into smaller, intermediate steps: identifying a suitable topic, establishing the feasibility of the topic by locating relevant sources, developing a formal research proposal, and writing up research in sections that form the building blocks of the final work. Along the way, we will read and discuss exemplary work, explore techniques and technologies, share work in progress, and encourage one another. The seminar culminates in a conference-style presentation and the submission of the seminar paper itself.
Evaluation:
This is a two quarter seminar, but Canvas only thinks in terms of single quarters. That makes it impossible for me to set out how your work will be evaluated by weighting assignments. Instead, let me offer the following.
Your grade in HSTRY 596-7 is cumulative, that is, based on work completed over both quarters. The most important element in your grade is your essay, the grade for which is determined in consultation with your faculty mentor. That said, significant weight is also given to work along the way. Be sure to attend class sessions, participate in discussion, and complete intermediate assignments, the proposal, prospectus, outline, drafts, and in-class presentation.
Discussion Participation 10%
Intermediate Assignments 15%
Essay 75%