course-details-portlet

KRIG3100

Historical research methods

Credits 7.5
Level Second degree level
Course start Autumn 2025
Duration 1 semester
Language of instruction Norwegian
Location Trondheim
Examination arrangement Assignment

About

About the course

Course content

The aim of the course is to provide a basic understanding of how history is produced. Which scientific methods do historians use when studying sources, researching results and turning the past into history? The subject is about historical methods, their theoretical assumptions and how methods and choice of empirical data are part of a historical research design that aims to answer historical research questions. The course also presents ethical aspects related to the research process and the communication of history.

Learning outcome

A candidate who has passed the course is expected to have the following learning outcomes in accordance with the course description, defined as knowledge and skills:

Knowledge

The candidate has knowledge of

  • key methods in historical research processes
  • the components of a historical research design
  • the distinction between theory and method
  • research ethics

Skills

The candidate has

  • ability to set up a consistent research design
  • ability to reflect on methodological choices during the research process
  • source-critical awareness
  • awareness of research ethics

Learning methods and activities

The course is taught via digital platform. The platform can include short lectures, short podcast presentations, talks, and brief written teaching materials. A physical gathering is offered that is practically oriented and which may include lectures, seminar activity and group assignments. All students receive academic feedback on the compulsory term paper.

Compulsory assignments

  • Draft of term paper

Further on evaluation

The exam consists of a written paper. The work starts early in the semester and a first draft must be approved in order for the paper to be submitted as an exam answer. It is possible to take the exam in semesters when the course is not taught.

Required previous knowledge

BA in Military Studies, History, Political Science or equivalent.

Course materials

Reading list, literature compendium, and written notes posted on the digital platform.

Credit reductions

Course code Reduction From
HIST3105 7.5 sp Autumn 2024
This course has academic overlap with the course in the table above. If you take overlapping courses, you will receive a credit reduction in the course where you have the lowest grade. If the grades are the same, the reduction will be applied to the course completed most recently.

Subject areas

  • History

Contact information

Course coordinator

Department with academic responsibility

Department of Modern History and Society

Examination

Examination

Examination arrangement: Assignment
Grade: Passed / Not Passed

Ordinary examination - Autumn 2025

Assignment
Weighting 100/100 Date Submission 2025-12-05 Time Submission 12:00 Exam system Inspera Assessment

Ordinary examination - Spring 2026

Assignment
Weighting 100/100 Exam system Inspera Assessment