This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
Throughout the course of human history, developments in science and technology have changed the way we interact with one another and with the world at large. This team-taught module will showcase the breadth and depth of expertise of the staff in History by exposing students to examples of technological advances from the medieval, early modern and modern periods, and encompassing diverse sub-fields such as military history, environmental history, and the history of medicine. Moreover, the ten technologies included in the module will each act as a lens through which students can understand broader historical trends and themes – including the rise of literacy and civil society, the expansion and reduction of empire, travel across and beyond the Earth, the fight for gender and race equality, and the social implications of an increasingly online and interconnected world.
Total contact hours: 20
Total private study hours: 130
Total study hours: 150
Main assessment method
• Blog post (1,000 words) 15%
• Essay (2,000 words) 25%
• Seminar contributions 10%
• Examination (2 hours) 50%
Reassessment methods
One essay of 2,000 words; title to be selected from the list of essays in the Module Handbook and on a topic not hitherto covered by the student.
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 Demonstrate knowledge of key technologies, episodes and events in the medieval, early modern and modern development of science and technology in Europe and the USA.
2 Interpret a representative sample of science and technology historiography from the past generation.
3 Demonstrate an understanding of key themes explored by historians of science and technology since the birth of the sociology of scientific knowledge (e.g. practices, networks, textualisation).
4 Demonstrate an understanding of how these historical methodologies translate into written histories.
5 Demonstrate critical acumen concerning popular myths about science, technology and their history.
6 Display an understanding of the specific skills involved in the presentation of technological development to different audiences.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles associated with this topic and interpret them within that framework
2 Display their ability to identify and solve problems
3 Engage confidently in independent work, with a strong grasp of time management, use of library resources, historical research, organisation and analysis of material, and communicate through various methods to a variety of audiences.
4 Communicate the results of their research effectively through written work, including the use of structured and coherent arguments.
5 Demonstrate their communication skills and skills with IT.
6 Present information creatively and accessibly.
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.
