University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Only available to students on the MLitt Contemporary Studies.

Planned timetable: To be arranged

This module focuses on the ways in which knowledge is defined, generated and communicated in different academic disciplines (Arts, Social Science, Science) and professional practices. What counts as a fact?; what constitutes evidence? what role is played by texts? what, if anything, is the Arts equivalent of the laboratory? what specialist lexicon is employed? how is research disseminated? are disciplinary stereotypes accurate? Students also learn how different academic disciplines define what is contemporary in terms of both topics and methodologies. These discipline-centred sessions are complemented by training in a range of research and professional skills, and a short term placement in an outside agency (museum, library, business, etc) affording an additional perspective on contemporary challenges and practices.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: Seminars (X13), Skills sessions (X3) and an external placement across the Semester.

Scheduled learning hours: 32

Guided independent study hours: 261

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 50%, Original Coursework = 50%.

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor M A Hutton
Module teaching staff: Prof M A Hutton, Dr S Rose, Dr I Merkurieva,Dr A Burke, Dr C Hobaiter