NORAM4500 – Methods course. North America studies, Program for European and American studies
Course content
This course will give a relatively broad theoretical and methodological introduction to the field of American Studies as preparation for independent research. Different conceptions of American Studies as a field will be considered. There will be focus on the possible uses of a broad choice of sources for cultural research – both primary and secondary. Teaching will be oriented toward the practical use of theories and methods and the examination of sources and methods used by established scholars. In addition, there will be consideration of the organization and process of writing.
Learning outcome
You will learn the skills necessary for conducting independent research and writing the masters’ thesis. You will learn to critically analyze various types of primary sources. You will learn to assess the scholarly literature and debates on a topic. You will also receive training in formulating fruitful problem statements and hypotheses, scholarly ethics, and organizing your own research. You will learn to see questions within the broader field of American Studies.
Admission
Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.
If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.
Max 25 students.
Prerequisites
Formal prerequisite knowledge
The students must be admitted to the master program in European and American studies, North America studies.
Recommended previous knowledge
80-group in Nord-America studies, especially NORAM3500 – Thesis course, North-American-studies (discontinued). It is recommended to follow EAS4500 – Europeiske og amerikanske studier. Metodisk innf?ring (discontinued) the same term.
Teaching
2 hours per week for 7 weeks (usually 2nd half of term). 90% attendance is required.
Autumn 2010 teaching will consist of 4 hour sessions in weeks 41-44.
Examination
A qualifying assignment to be assigned must be approved in order to turn in the portfolio. The portfolio will consist of a small number of assignments and a two hour classroom exam.
Previous exams: http://www.uio.no/studier/emner/hf/ilos/NORAM4500/Eksamensoppgaver/Eksamensoppgaver.xml
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.
The results will be found on the StudentWeb within three weeks of the exam.
Explanations and appeals
Resit an examination
Withdrawal from an examination
It is possible to take the exam up to 3 times. If you withdraw from the exam after the deadline or during the exam, this will be counted as an examination attempt.
Special examination arrangements
Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.
Other
The subject is obligatory for all students taking a master degree in North America studies, Program for European and American studies.