Terms: Autumn and Spring

Duration: 20 hours

Course Description

The aim of this module is to provide an overview of science and technology in Spain. This module will introduce you to Spanish scientific discoveries that have had a major impact in the fields of chemistry, physics and biology alongside the main technical and industrial developments that have occurred in Spain. The development of technical education and of the main research institutions in Spain will also be discussed.

History of Science (Spanish)

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, you will be better prepared able to: 

Identify the most important trends in the fields of science and technology of Spain and relate these to current research and academic landscapes. You will be able to conduct independent research on matters relating to science and technology in the relevant countries using resources in the target language, and to present, discuss and defend your research findings. In addition, you will be able to construct a sophisticated argument and to participate in debates demonstrating control of relevant subject-specific linguistic features at the appropriate level (Horizons level 4 or 5) and following relevant academic conventions. 

For the language and Year Abroad module information, please refer to the relevant webpages. 

Learning & Teaching Approach

The History of Science module is taught through a weekly seminar session where you will have the chance to review, analyse and discuss key events and developments, aided with set texts or class notes. You will need to do some preparation for sessions (e.g. at-home reading) so that, during seminars, you can respond to discussions, interact with your teacher and peers, present your own perspective, and ask questions. 

Seminars will give you an opportunity to start defining your research topic in preparation for the summative assessment. 

Assessment
  • 1-hour exam on the virtual learning environment at the end of term 1 consisting of short answers on 2 out of 3 topics (min. 150 words each)
  • Independent research project (4000 words) to be handed in at the start of term 3
  • Presentation and discussion of this research project during a 30-minute practical in term 3
Term 1
  • Introduction to the History of Science & Technology
  • Science in Al-Andalus
  • Scientific terminology
  • Meeting the New World
  • Scientific expeditions
  • The scientific consequences of the trips and expeditions
  • The Spanish Enlightenment
  • Institutions of the Spanish Enlightenment
  • The importance of controversy in science
  • Great advances in the science of the 19th century
Term 2
  • The science of Spain in the 19th century
  • The turn of the century
  • Neurology
  • Boom time for Spanish science
  • Francoism
  • Scientific recovery during the democratic transition
  • Science in the first two decades of the 21st century