Learning outcomes: after completing the course, students will have:
- knowledge of a relevant historical case study pertaining to the specialised topic;
- knowledge and understanding of the historical context of the specialised topic;
- basic knowledge of the theoretical discourse around the course topic;
- knowledge of methods relevant to the study of this specialised topic;
- knowledge of the latest scholarship: current historiographical issues;
- skills to conduct independent research on a historical topic on the basis of a research question formulated on their own and using historical sources;
- basic skills in the application of theories to historical material;
- basic skills in data analysis and use of requisite tools in a historical context;
- a skills set enabling them to think, act and communicate at an academic level and in line with academic standards of conduct ('academic integrity').
Learning objectives and skills: after completing the course, students will be able to:
- find and assess relevant scholarly articles and historical sources;
- define their own research topic that fits within the course topic;
- formulate a clear research question;
- conduct research based on primary and other sources and anchored in the historiography;
- independently plan and conduct research
- analyse primary sources and literature in relation to the research question;
- draw conclusions on the basis of previous arguments;
- present the results of this research in writing at an academic level;
- give and receive feedback (peer review) on parts of research papers.
|
 |
|
This is the second course of Specialisation 7: Conflict , Violence, and Security
(English track International Relations).
We live in a world that is governed by security and by the endeavour to banish all forms of insecurity, evidenced by encroaching forms of public monitoring using cameras, and sometimes heavily-armed officers. Our online communications and virtual contacts also attract the attention of security services. To what extent does this befit the society that we profess to be? Do we ask enough critical questions about the politicisation of security, or do we sometimes permit politicians to (ab)use the subject to amass power?
This course aims to provide students with an insight into current issues regarding the approach to national and international security, e.g. by highlighting relevant historical developments. The focus is on the development of thought on security, e.g. the conversion of new ideas and philosophies regarding risk and security into concrete security policy measures (the ‘securitisation’ of subjects such as internal and external threats) and in national and international safety institutions, such as the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD) and the National Coordinator for Security and Counterterrorism (NCTV).
The emphasis lies on conducting independent source/other research: in the course, students learn to write individual research papers on current and historical cases from the history of the Netherlands, Europe and possibly the United States, ranging from the nineteenth century to the present day. They conduct their own research using materials such as archival documents from the police or other (secret) service departments in the Netherlands and abroad. In this way, students become aware of the connection between new concepts of security and the rise and development of the state. International security structures are also examined, that not only reduce the risks for citizens, but can also aid states in maintaining the domestic distribution of power.
|
|
|