History in the Classroom

Module code: HS2360

How should history be taught in schools? Should the focus be on learning about the key events of ‘Our Island Story’ or a thematic overview of global trends? Does the right sort of history create the right sort of citizen? Who should decide what is taught: teachers, professional Historians, or politicians?

History in schools is currently contested territory, featuring daily in newspapers as the government, experts, and teachers battle for ownership of the terrain. This course seeks to familiarise you with these issues, and moreover, with the practicalities of history education.

You’ll be allocated to a Leicester school that you’ll visit weekly over a ten week period where you’ll undertake hands-on work in the classroom, helping the teacher in instructing the class, and aiding the students with learning. Alongside this weekly practical work the group will meet at the beginning, middle and end of the semester to discuss their experiences, and to think more broadly about the politics of history education.