The General aims of the History programme are to develop a student orientated course which will:

• Encourage student interest in and enjoyment of history through:

- Developing an understanding of how people and nations are shaped by and shape the world in which they live and by the government under which they live.

- Fostering an awareness of changes in countries over time

- Developing an understanding of national and international issues and the effects of such issues on societies and nations.

- Developing a sense of cultural perspective, i.e. relevance in the situation they are studying to their own present day situation (use examples from current events).

• Provide, through a variety of learning activities, relevant and stimulating ideas (but at the same time offer security in their presentation) and develop specific historical skills and techniques in order to:

- Establish a basis for sound critical thinking and rational decision making

- Prepare students for examinations and future career opportunities.

An understanding and appreciation of the past requires the development of skills such as:

• Thinking critically
• Evaluating information
• Appreciating the complexity of the historical process
• Empathising with other indivduals, groups and cultures
• Speaking and writing fluently and with confidence