Economic & Social History 3: Research Methods in Economic and Social History B ESH3002

  • Academic Session: 2025-26
  • School: School of Social and Political Sciences
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 3 (SCQF level 9)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

Part of a suite of three courses aimed primarily at students taking the non-Honours MA

in Social Sciences. Students will design and create a research project focusing on a theme, agreed with the convenor, relating to the economic and social history of Britain, 1775-2000.  Using primary resources students will develop a research question, design a methodology and complete an original piece of research using qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Timetable

Two 1 hour lectures in week 1 and 2, followed by one 1 hour group tutorial on topic selection in week 3, followed by  five weekly 1 hour group project supervisions. 

Requirements of Entry

40 credits of Level 2 Economic & Social History.

Co-requisites

ESH3001 Research Methods in Economic and Social History A

ESH3003 Studies in Economic and Social History

Assessment

One project design (1500 words, 35%)

One research project (3000 to 8000 words, depending on group size, 65%)

Course Aims

The aim of the course is to provide students with the knowledge and skills to design and undertake a small research project on a topic agreed with the course convenor. The course aims to provide students with the skills to identify, define and assess appropriate areas of research related to the economic and social history of the United Kingdom. The course will assist in the development of skills in source criticism, quantitative and qualitative research skills, groupwork and to encourage positive contribution when working as part of a team.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

Upon completion of this course students will be able to:

ILO 1. Design a research project design

ILO 2. Demonstrate skills in group work and/or independent study

ILO 3. Employ effective communication

ILO 4. Prepare historical analysis and use relevant sources to a topic agreed by the convenor

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.