AH4258 Digital Approaches to Medieval Manuscripts

Academic year

2024 to 2025 Semester 2

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

30

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 10

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Availability restrictions

Not automatically available to General Degree students

Module coordinator

Prof K M Rudy

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module Staff

Prof Kathryn Rudy

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module description

This module combines medieval studies with cutting-edge digital technology. It invites students to explore how digital tools transform our understanding of the European Middle Ages. Students will engage with various digital methodologies, from digitising manuscripts to creating virtual reality experiences. It also examines the role of social media in disseminating medieval studies. Through a blend of theoretical and practical approaches, students will critically assess how these digital landscapes reshape historiography. The module aims not just to educate but to inspire a re-evaluation of how knowledge about the Middle Ages is formed, communicated, and experienced in our increasingly digital world. From an initial overview of digital tools in medieval studies to the techniques in manuscript digitisation, the curriculum addresses medieval scribal practices, illuminations, and scripts juxtaposed with digital fonts, databases, and digital tools, such as RTI and spectroscopy.

Assessment pattern

Courswork - 100%

Re-assessment

Written examination - 100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

2h lecture (x11 weeks), 1h seminar (x11 weeks), 1h office hour (x12 weeks), 2 field trips

Scheduled learning hours

49

The number of compulsory student:staff contact hours over the period of the module.

Guided independent study hours

255

The number of hours that students are expected to invest in independent study over the period of the module.

Intended learning outcomes

  • Understand the role of digital technology in medieval studies.
  • Analyse digital reconstructions of medieval artifacts and sites.
  • Critically engage with new technologies and their impact on historiography.
  • Develop competencies in storytelling and self-expression through new digital media, including short-form video, plus at least one other.