The study of history is about a lot more than facts and dates. Questions of the possibility of historical truth, the methodology of its pursuit, and the political responsibilities of historians to both the past and the future are central to the craft of the historian. This course offers the chance to explore these and other historiographical questions using some fascinating (and sometimes weird and wonderful) case studies.
The Debate Chamber History Summer School will be of particular benefit to those students who are considering the study of History, or a related subject, at university. This intensive course will be conducted through seminars, lectures, structured activities and informal discussions, in order to create a genuine sense of what studying history at undergraduate level is like. The topics covered over the five days have been specifically selected to challenge and broaden the historical outlook of participants and as such the course requires no specific previous background knowledge (although students are encouraged to bring their own examples to the questions addressed) and is open to all students aged 15-18. The most important qualification is a strong enthusiasm for history!
The Summer School offers students the opportunity to develop their historical studies by tackling areas of study not often covered by the school curriculum. By exploring new and ambitious topics, students will be challenged to confront the unexamined assumptions underlying their interpretations and to develop their analysis of primary and secondary source materials. The course offers students the opportunity to gain a good basic understanding of a broad range of historiographical trends and subject matters, and as a result, students will not only be well equipped make informed decisions about studying history at university, but will enjoy the challenge of being presented with new ideas, and benefit from having their own thoughts critically examined.
Our approach to tuition is varied – lively tutorial discussions, formal debates, lectures, group presentations and close individual reading of primary and secondary source material. Special emphasis is given to developing students’ skills as critical readers at an undergraduate level, by analysing extracts and quotations, as well as images, material sources and oral accounts. Participants will be supported in formulating and presenting their own viewpoints clearly and logically and be encouraged to challenge one another’s positions in a constructive and friendly atmosphere. Class sizes of 14 students per group allow us to give each student plenty of individual attention and useful feedback.
You can view a full schedule for the course, details of tutors and lots more feedback from last year on our website – www.debatechamber.com/summerschools/history-summer-school/
Feedback from Previous Summer Historians:
Before the History Summer School, I had no idea what studying history beyond the facts could be like. After the summer school, thanks to the brilliant tutors and the challenging curriculum, I have a much more in-depth knowledge of the various theories behind historical study and what it is like to further study history. I’d recommend this Summer School to anyone who has even the slightest interest in history, it was probably the most informative and interesting 5 days of my life!
For me, this course was originally planning to be a sort of wake up from the summer. However, the five non-stop history filled days that we were given meant I didn’t just turn on my brain, I excited it: critically looking at intriguing sources. Due to the huge scope of the course, no matter where your interest is you’re bound to come away with a new one. Then too, the lecturers/teachers provided entertaining and enlightening commentary on the sources and historical events that we covered. Discussion amongst the group was always flowing and I was always left with something bubbling in my mind at the end of the day.
You just really need to go, it has changed my outlook on History and my passion for the subject ten-fold!
I would certainly recommend this Summer School to anybody interested in studying history further. The five days covered a large range of subjects and the tutors were very informative, fantastic at helping everyone be involved in discussions. There was a great atmosphere in the sessions and I felt comfortable contributing. I am really glad I attended.
Practical Details:
This Summer School takes place on the 18th-22nd July (and repeated 1st-5th August and 22nd-26th August), the venue will be the University of London Bloomsbury Campus. The course fees are £465 per student.
There is a limited amount of bursary funding available for students who would otherwise have financial difficulty in attending – please see our website for details.
To book a place please visit http://www.debatechamber.com/summerschools/history-summer-school/, call us on 0845 519 4827, or email info@debatechamber.com. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.