HTY 498-0001: Senior Seminar in American History

Instructor:  TBA

Class Number:  83511

Days/Time:  Thursday, 4:00-5:50pm

Location: Stevens 175

Description:  The senior seminar is the capstone of the undergraduate History major at the University of Maine.  As a seminar course, its emphasis is on individual and small group work.  Each member of the class will produce an original piece of historical writing based on primary and secondary sources.  In addition, students will be expected to aid in the development of their classmates’ research projects through peer reviews and discussion of common readings.  Finally, students will present their work to the seminar in formal presentations at the end of the semester.

During the first five weeks students will learn how to do historical research and writing. After that, the students will proceed to do research and writing on topics of their choice. This class requires a serious commitment of time and effort on the part of all seminar members.  Attendance and participation are required.  All written work must be submitted on time.

To maintain its accreditation, the University of Maine is required to undertake a qualitative assessment of its programs.  The Department of History, along with other departments in the University, has devised a procedure to help it assess the skills and knowledge acquired by undergraduate majors in the course of their studies here.  As members of the History Department’s capstone experience, you will be required to take part in this procedure. This will include a four-part take home essay and a questionnaire.  Failure to take part in this exercise may delay or even prevent graduation

General Education Requirements: Satisfies the Writing Intensive and Capstone Experience requirements.

Prerequisites: Restricted to history majors with senior standing.