19th century history: scientific innovations

Examine the scientific and technological inventions of the 19th century, how they changed peoples’ lives and how they were publicly understood. How did revolutionary theories about evolution and energy co-exist with a wide interest in the occult?

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Key course information

Date
12/05/12

Day(s)
Sat

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees ?
Full fee: £37
Senior fee: £23
Concession: £11

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HH118

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished


Course outline

What is the course about?

This course examines the 19th century theories that changed and even revolutionised science as well as the technological innovations of this period. The course will explore key aspects of the contextual circumstances of these changes and analyse the overlapping of science and other areas of life in the 19th century. Finally we will discuss the how science was reported on and diffused and how it was represented in the popular imagination.

What topics will we cover?

19th century scientific and technological inventions
The spread of new technology
The popularisation of scientific ideas
The impact of photography
Developments in physics
Science and the supernatural (e.g. the Victorian supernatural).

By the end of this course you should be able to:

List the key 19th century scientific and technological inventions
List and discuss the key changes in scientific theory
Discuss the relationship between science and other areas of life in the 19th century
Analyse 19th century source materials.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an `introductory` course and does not assume any previous study or reading although you will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. As with most of our history and current affairs courses, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Lecture presentation, slideshow, tutor-guided group analysis of nineteenth century texts, photography and artworks, possible use of film/documentary clips, interactive group discussion.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no necessary costs although further reading will be suggested.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Other 'History Saturday' courses.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

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Contact us

Humanities

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

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