Key facts
UNE unit code: HINQ302
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
This unit introduces the concept of digital humanities, which combines traditional humanities with new digital technologies and data through a variety of intersecting methologies. Since the mid-20th century, there has been an exponential increase in digital data and great leaps in available information and communication technologies. While providing many opportunities for students and researchers in the Humanities and beyond, these shifts have also created a range of potential pitfalls.
Throughout this unit you will explore how these shifts have shaped how we research, conserve and interpret the past in the digital age while engaging with essential debates, concepts and philosophies. You will develop new advanced practical skills to accelerate your skills in working with digital data, creating and working with databases, introductory coding (markdown and R), web publishing, analysing sources, digital media, qualitative data, mapping historical data, artificial intelligence, 3D modelling, and more.
This unit provides an accessible introduction to digital research methodologies for students from all academic backgrounds and skill levels. There are no technical prerequisites for this unit, other than having access to and being comfortable with using computers, and being eager to learn new digital skills.
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:
- illustrate an understanding of foundational concepts, principles, and approaches to designing and conducting research in the ‘digital age’;
- demonstrate awareness and understanding of the challenges and opportunities created by digital technologies in researching, conserving, and interpreting the past;
- evaluate approaches best suited to common types of historical research problems;
- demonstrate the ability to create, analyse, visualise and critique digital data and to work with varied sources;
- effectively transmit knowledge and understanding of the research process and outputs to others; and
- reflect critically on the opportunities and challenges created by engaging with the digital humanities in researching, conserving, and interpreting the past.
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 | 20% | All offerings | Quiz No. Words: 1000 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 60% | All offerings | Research exercises: Choice of four digital research exercises using digital approaches (4 x 1000 words equivalent) No. Words: 4000 (total) |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Reflective essay No. Words: 1000 |
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: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
The Digital Humanities Coursebook: An Introduction to Digital Methods for Research and Scholarship
ISBN: 9780367565756
Drucker, J, Routledge/ Taylor & Francis 1st 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
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