From this initial introduction to the world of the monstrous, the module goes on to explore particular aspects of it, dwelling on the social context within which the expulsion of those ideas and practices deemed to be 'monstrous' proceeded as well as specific examples of entities deemed to be 'monstrous' from strange beasts in the French countryside and the disembodied voices of early telephone users to crypto-animals and a new crop of cyborg citizens. The lectures are formed around key, largely chronological themes - Enlightenment Wars, Victorian Inquiry, Fortean Times, Out of Place/ Out of Scale and Popular Culture - which are illustrated via in-depth case studies.
Problem_solving |
The module will develop students¿ problem-solving skills in a number of ways. Students will be required to discuss and analyse a range of visual texts, and to complete small problem-solving exercises during the lectures. Students will also have to address problems associated with research design when undertaking their assessed essay. |
Research skills |
Students are required to undertake independent research for their essay which will draw upon and enhance skills they have developed in previous modules. Further research skills will be developed through class-based discussions and problem-solving exercises and further reading they undertake. |
Communication |
The module will help students to develop their written and oral communication skills. Class discussions will enable students to develop their oral communication skills, and the assessed essay and examination will enable students to practice and enhance their written communication skills. |
Improving own Learning and Performance |
Student attendance and participation in the lectures, and their undertaking of an assessed essay, will help them to enhance a range of learning skills. The module requires students to undertake sixty hours of self-directed study. |
Team work |
The lectures will include class-based problem-solving exercises and discussions which will provide opportunities for students to develop team-working skills and discuss their thoughts with the class. |
Information Technology |
The assessed essay requires students to undertake independent research using bibliographic search-engines and library catalogues. The module will enable students to enhance their research skills and practise their IT skills when writing the essay. |
Application of Number |
Students may draw upon and analyse numerical information in their assessed essays. |
Personal Development and Career planning |
The module will help students to develop key transferable skills, in addition to raising important questions about the histories and geographies of Britain which will help them to think about their role as citizens within society. The course discusses themes which will be invaluable for students wishing to undertake postgraduate study in geography. |
Subject Specific Skills |
The module will enable students to practice subject-specific skills which they have developed in years one and two, including techniques for analyzing historical and cultural texts. Students will develop their analytical skills through class-based discussions and in their assessed essay and examination. |