Key facts
UNE unit code: HIST556
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
This unit invites you to reflect on the ways the past is present in a variety of forms and places in contemporary societies including, for example, commemorations, films, heritage sites, historical fiction, memorials, museums, re-enactments and tours.
You will be introduced to public history debates and methods, as well as draw on comparative examples, while being encouraged to engage with specific public history projects and exploratory activities.
The unit also provides you with foundations for further studies in public history research and practice, and for the development of career paths in public history.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- evaluate and reflect on the variety of ways in which the past is present in contemporary societies;
- apply an advanced body of knowledge to evaluate current public history debates and methodologies;
- demonstrate autonomy and expert judgement to research and analyse in detail a selection of specific public history practices and issues;
- apply their advanced knowledge of public history to practical issues and specific issues in the public domain; and
- apply specialised knowledge of the variety of ways in which public historians gain employment, their ethical and social responsibilities, and the political and cultural contexts within which they work.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Reflective exercise and essay No. Words: 2500 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 60% | All offerings | Applied project No. Words: 3500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
The Public History Reader
ISBN: 9780415520416
Kean, H. and Martin, P. (eds.), Routledge 2013
Text refers to: Trimester 2 (Online)
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