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Course profile

Interdisciplinary Thinking (HUMN1100)

Study period
Sem 1 2025
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person

Course overview

Study period
Semester 1, 2025 (24/02/2025 - 21/06/2025)
Study level
Undergraduate
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person
Units
2
Administrative campus
St Lucia
Coordinating unit
Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences

Great intellectual movements transcend disciplinary boundaries. They shift paradigms and revolutionise systems of thought. This course examines some of the most important intellectual movements in the humanities from Renaissance Humanism to the Enlightenment, Romanticism and Modernism. It outlines each interdisciplinary movement's key concepts and locates them within their cultural and historical context. Through a study of selected texts, students will acquire knowledge of the critical tools and insights that each movement developed and how to apply them. This course invites students to critically reflect upon societal values and appreciate the contingency implicit in many statements of cultural hegemony.

HUMN1100 is a two-unit (#2) course designed to introduce students to the ᅠintellectual movements that have proved crucial to the development of the humanities. The course will be taught through 1.5-hour lectures and 1.5-hour seminars. ᅠRegular attendance, reading, and participation ᅠin all components of the course is vital.

Course requirements

Restrictions

BAdvHum(Hons) and BHum/LLB(Hons) students only.

Course contact

Course staff

Lecturer

Tutor

Timetable

The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.

Aims and outcomes

This course aims to:

  • introduce you to the key intellectual movements that have shaped the development of the Humanities since Antiquity;
  • introduce you to the key conceptsᅠ of Humanities disciplines and interdisciplinarity;
  • teach you how to analyse these movements within their social, political, and intellectual contexts and examine the historical forces that shaped their development;
  • demonstrate to you the way in which these intellectual movements provide the tools to frame and critique cultural objects;
  • contribute to your ᅠacquisition of a range of graduate attributes, including basic computer literacy, the use of a library and the internet in scholarly research, the management of information, the synthesis of ideas, the capacity to solve problems, ᅠand the ability to communicate successfully both orally and in print;
  • teach you how to work effectively in teams.

Learning outcomes

After successfully completing this course you should be able to:

LO1.

Outline the principal features of key intellectual movements.

LO2.

Present an account of the historical and cultural forces that lead to the rise of particular intellectual movements.

LO3.

Apply key insights from intellectual movements to the analysis of texts and other cultural objects.

LO4.

Understand what we mean when we speak of a Humanities discipline, and what it means to work intellectually across disciplines.

LO5.

Work effectively as part of a small team to present key findings about the value of intellectual movements to the study of the Humanities. In the process, you will demonstrate interpersonal and communication skills, and also be able to reflect on what makes a successful collaboration.

Assessment

Assessment summary

Category Assessment task Weight Due date
Participation/ Student contribution Class Participation 15%

24/02/2025 - 30/05/2025

Creative Production/ Exhibition Video Essay 20%

17/04/2025 2:00 pm

Presentation Group Presentation 20% Outline 1000 words

26/05/2025 2:00 pm

Group presentation outline to be submitted on this date, presentations to follow in class.

Examination Final Examination 45%

End of Semester Exam Period

7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025

Assessment details

Class Participation

Mode
Activity/ Performance
Category
Participation/ Student contribution
Weight
15%
Due date

24/02/2025 - 30/05/2025

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Task description

Participation is essential for passing this course, and does not consist solely of attendance. You must show evidence of preparation for seminars and participate in large and small group discussions with relevant and well-focused comments. You must not be late to seminars and you must be present for the entire seminar session to gain participation credit. You must also bring all required texts to class and demonstrate that you've read them. You must also help to foster a supportive class dynamic by being respectful of of others and helping fellow students to contribute by, for example, not distracting them, or by helping to make room for them to speak. In addition, you must complete a short writing exercise at the beginning of each seminar. This exercise is designed to help prepare you for the course examination. No phones are allowed in seminars, and they must be kept in your bag.

AI Notice: This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

Deferral or extension

You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.

Video Essay

Mode
Product/ Artefact/ Multimedia
Category
Creative Production/ Exhibition
Weight
20%
Due date

17/04/2025 2:00 pm

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03, L04

Task description

Individually, you will create a short, 5-minute video essay that makes an argument about the relevance of one text, object or artwork to one of the following two movements: Humanism or Enlightenment. You must select one text, object or artwork from the list of options, and undertake research and analysis to support your argument about its significance to the movement. How does your text, object or artwork help us understand your chosen movement? Make an argument! Your video essay must be scripted, recorded and uploaded as an MP4 or MOV file through Blackboard, and must include a final shot or a separate file listing all sources used in making the essay, listed in MLA style.

AI Notice: You may use AI to assist in the development of this assessment item; however, a visual and audio recording of you speaking must be present for the duration of your video. A statement indicating where AI has been used must be included at the end of the video or below your Works Cited.

Submission guidelines

Video Essays must be uploaded to the course Blackboard site.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

Group Presentation

Mode
Activity/ Performance
Category
Presentation
Weight
20% Outline 1000 words
Due date

26/05/2025 2:00 pm

Group presentation outline to be submitted on this date, presentations to follow in class.

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Task description

You will be placed in small groups of 4-5 students. Together, choose one of the movements discussed in this course (Humanism, Enlightenment, Romanticism, or Modernism) and build an 10-minute presentation in which you present one way in which the movement continues to inform public engagements with the Humanities. Groups should ensure that all members participate in the presentation, and that they use the time effectively and in a focused manner. Sources do not necessarily need to be credited during the presentation itself, but groups should make sure to include them in a list in the outline.

AI Notice: You may use AI to assist in the development of this assessment item; however, all students, unless otherwise exempted by the course coordinators, are required to present in person on the specified date. A statement indicating where AI has been used must be included in the group presentation outline.

Submission guidelines

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

Final Examination

Mode
Written
Category
Examination
Weight
45%
Due date

End of Semester Exam Period

7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03, L04

Task description

Your final assessment in this course will be an in-person, invigilated essay exam. You will choose two questions, from a list provided, and write a short essay response to each within two hours. In your responses, you will need to be as specific as possible, and include precise references to texts and concepts studied in this course. Each essay should have a basic argument and be well focused on the topic. No aids will be permitted.

AI Notice: This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Exam details

Planning time 10 minutes
Duration 120 minutes
Calculator options

No calculators permitted

Open/closed book Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted
Exam platform Paper based
Invigilation

Invigilated in person

Submission guidelines

Deferral or extension

You may be able to defer this exam.

Course grading

Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.

Grade Cut off Percent Description
1 (Low Fail) 0 - 24.99

Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Grade 1, Serious Fail (0-24.99%), is generally awarded in cases where there has been some engagement with the assessment task and/or some work has been submitted, but of wholly unsatisfactory standard or quantity. There is no demonstrated evidence of understanding of the concepts of the field of study or basic requirements of the course.

2 (Fail) 25 - 44.99

Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Grade 2, Fail (25-44.99%), is generally awarded to work that exhibits deficiencies in understanding and applying the fundamental concepts of the course and field of study, and as such, does not satisfy the basic requirements of the course. Often, one or more major items of assessment will not have been completed.

3 (Marginal Fail) 45 - 49.99

Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes

Course grade description: Grade 3, Marginal Fail (45-49.99%), is generally awarded if a student has submitted work that attempts to meet the knowledge and skill requirements of the course, but is only able to demonstrate a superficial understanding of the fundamental concepts of the course and field of study. Students will usually have attempted all major pieces of assessment and show that they have an identifiable, emerging ability to apply basic knowledge and skills.

4 (Pass) 50 - 64.99

Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Grade 4, Pass (50-64.99%), is generally awarded where all major items of assessment have been submitted. An adequate knowledge of the fundamental concepts of the course and field of study should be demonstrated, and a functional skill level achieved.

5 (Credit) 65 - 74.99

Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Grade 5, Credit (65-74.99%), is generally awarded where all items of assessment have been completed and a substantial understanding of the fundamental concepts of the course and field of study has been demonstrated.ᅠ

6 (Distinction) 75 - 84.99

Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Grade 6, Distinction (75-84.99%), is generally awarded where all items of assessment have been completed and substantial knowledge of the deeper and more complex aspects of the course and field of study have been demonstrated.ᅠ

7 (High Distinction) 85 - 100

Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Grade 7, High Distinction (85-100%), is generally awarded where all items of assessment have been completed and there is evidence that the deeper and more complex aspects of the course and field of study have been mastered.

Supplementary assessment

Supplementary assessment is available for this course.

Additional assessment information

Proof of Assessment Submission

Assignments for this course will be submitted electronically via Blackboard and using TurnItIn. Advice for using TurnItIn can be found here - how to submit a TurnItIn assignment.

When assessments are successfully submitted a notice will display, before the Assignment Dashboard will appear.

Students must download a digital receipt from the Assignment Dashboard as evidence of submitting a piece of assessment. The digital receipt must include ‘Submission date’ and ‘Submission ID’ as evidence of assignment submission. Other documentation provided as evidence will not be accepted.


Marks Cannot be Changed After Being Released

Marks are not open to negotiation with course staff. If you wish to discuss the feedback you have received, you should make an appointment to speak with the Course Coordinator.


Assessment Re-mark

Information on requesting an assessment re-mark can be accessed via my.UQ ヨ https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/academic-progress-and-final-results/querying-result.


Deferred Examinations (if applicable)

The University recognises that on occasion a medical condition or other exceptional circumstances may impair a studentメs ability to attend an examination at the scheduled date and time. Depending on the circumstances, a deferred examination may be approved, and the student permitted to sit the in-semester or end of semester examination at a later scheduled time. Information on eligibility and application instructions can be accessed via my.UQ ヨ https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/deferring-exam.


Integrity Pledge

Assignments for this course will be submitted electronically via Blackboard and using Turnitin. Before submitting any assignments, students must ensure to have completed UQ's compulsory online Academic Integrity Tutorial ヨ https://www.uq.edu.au/integrity/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%252fintegrity.

In uploading an assignment via Turnitin you are certifying that it is your original work, that it has not been copied in whole or part from another person or source except where this is properly acknowledged, and that it has not in whole or part been previously submitted for assessment in any other course at this or any other university.


Withholding marks prior to finalisation of grades

In accordance with the Assessment Judgements section of the Assessment Procedures, results for all summative assessment items are made available to individual students through the eLearning Management System on completion of marking, with the exception of the final assessment item which is to be released only after the final grade for the course has been released.

Learning resources

You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.

Library resources

Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.

Learning activities

The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.

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Learning period Activity type Topic
Week 1

(24 Feb - 02 Mar)

Lecture

Week 1: Introduction

This week will introduce students to the aims of the course, interdisciplinarity, and the four intellectual movements studied.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04

Week 2

(03 Mar - 09 Mar)

Lecture

Week 2: Humanism (Part 1: Renaissance)

This week's lecture on the advent and nature of Humanism in the Renaissance will be delivered by James Lancaster.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 3

(10 Mar - 16 Mar)

Lecture

Week 3: Humanism (Part 2: Reformation)

This week's lecture, delivered by James Lancaster, will explore the impact of the Studia humanitatis on the Reformation.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 4

(17 Mar - 23 Mar)

Lecture

Week 4: Enlightenment (Part 1: Science & Civilisation)

This week's lecture, delivered by James Lancaster, will explore the Enlightenment and its impact upon the Humanities through the emergence of the ideas of 'science' and 'civilisation'.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 5

(24 Mar - 30 Mar)

Lecture

Week 5: Enlightenment (Part 2: Progress & Modernity)

This week's lecture, delivered by James Lancaster, will explore how the Enlightenment drew upon the ideas of science and civilisation to promote the ideals of 'progress', 'liberty' and, ultimately, 'modernity'.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 6

(31 Mar - 06 Apr)

Lecture

Week 6: Enlightenment (Part 3: Indigenous Perspectives)

This week's lecture on Indigenous Perspectives on the Enlightenment will be delivered by Max Brierty.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 7

(07 Apr - 13 Apr)

Lecture

Week 7: Romanticism (Part 1: Aesthetic Theory)

This week Jennifer Clement will deliver a lecture on Romanticism as an aesthetic and intellectual movement.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 8

(14 Apr - 20 Apr)

Lecture

Week 8: Romanticism (Part 2: Poetry & Art)

In this week's lecture, Jennifer Clement will analyse Romantic theory in practice as expressed in work by William Wordsworth and Charlotte Smith.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 9

(28 Apr - 04 May)

Lecture

Week 9: Modernism (Part 1: Things Fall Apart)

In this week's lecture, Jennifer Clement will provide a general introduction to Modernism and the fear of fragmentation.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 10

(05 May - 11 May)

No student involvement (Breaks, information)

Week 10: Course Reading Week

There is no lecture or seminars this week for HUMN1100. Please use the extra time to prepare your group presentations.

Week 11

(12 May - 18 May)

Lecture

Week 11: Modernism (Part 2: Film & Fragmentation)

In this week's lecture, Jennifer Clement will provide a general introduction to Modernism and film.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 12

(19 May - 25 May)

Lecture

Week 12: Modernism (Part 3: The Great Outrage)

This week James Lancaster will lecture on Freud, the unconscious, and the new ideas about sexuality, mortality and religion that emerged in the context of Modernism.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 13

(26 May - 01 Jun)

Seminar

Week 13: Group Presentations

There is no lecture this week. Group presentations (20%) will take place in seminars.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Policies and procedures

University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:

Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.