Main Field of Study and progress level:
History of Science and Ideas: Second cycle, has only first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Grading scale: Pass with distinction, Pass, Fail
Responsible department: Department of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies
Established by: Faculty director of studies, Faculty of arts, 2014-09-19
Contents
What does it mean to be human? Are we spiritual creatures, or strictly genetically determined, or maybe both? These questions, and many others, will be addressed in this course as it invites students to engage with a broad array of historical texts on human nature. These texts cover religious, philosophical, psychological and biological accounts of what human beings are, or could be. Students are encouraged to reflect on core themes, arguments and knowledge claims in these texts and how they relate to the historical contexts in which they were originally expressed, as well as the relevance of these perspectives for how we understand ourselves today. The course is taught primarily in the form of short video introductions, online group seminar discussions, reflection exercises, and writing and presentation assignments.
Expected learning outcomes
After having completed the course the students will be able to: Knowledge and understanding
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of core themes, arguments and knowledge claims in historical texts on human nature,
Relate historical ideas of human nature to their relevant contexts,
Skills and Ability
Clearly and coherently discuss and reflect on course content,
Present a selected historical text/work for a non-academic audience using multimedia,
Assessment and Approach
Reflect on the role that ideas of human nature have for how we understand ourselves as individuals, as well as collectively as a society.
Required Knowledge
90 ECTS courses in history of ideas, or a Bachelors degree (180 ECTS), or the equivalent. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English A (IELTS (Academic) with a minimum overall score of 5.5 and no individual score below 5.0. TOEFL PBT (Paper-based Test) with a minimum total score of 530 and a minimum TWE score of 4. TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) with a minimum total score of 72 and a minimum score of 17 on the Writing Section). Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.
Form of instruction
The course is taught completely online and involves only asynchronous learning activities. The course is structured into 10 week-long learning units/modules and is designed around the active participation of students, in the form of group discussions and other types of interaction.
Technical requirements
Regular, reliable, high speed internet access
A computer (laptop or stationary) with a webcam (built in or external)
A microphone, preferably a headset with microphone
Examination modes
Active participation in the course’s weekly online group seminar discussions and reflection exercises is obligatory. The examination also includes a short written essay and an individual multimedia presentation.
Academic credit transfer Transfer of credits is handled by Student Services/Degree Evaluation Office. See http://www.student.umu.se/english/getting-your-degree/transfer-of-credits/
The required reading is a selection of primary sources, mainly textual. These texts will be available in digital form when the course starts, at the latest.
The required reading is a selection of primary sources, mainly textual. These texts will be available in digital form when the course starts, at the latest.
