HS1TRG-The Rwanda Genocide of 1994

Module Provider: History
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Heike Schmidt
Email: h.i.schmidt@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module introduces students to the definition and historical problem of genocide through a detailed examination of the causes, course, and effects of the Rwanda genocide of 1994. This module is optional for SINGLE HONOURS STUDENTS ONLY.

Aims:
The purpose of this module is twofold. It introduces students to the definition and historical problem of genocide. At the same time it examines closely the causes, course, and effects of the Rwanda genocide of 1994. This will at the same time provide insight into major themes of African History such as the creation of tribes, the effects of colonialism, the challenges of the postcolonial state, and post-conflict reconciliation.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that students will be able to:

• identify the sources of the topic in question


• trace its historical development


• be aware of differing historiographical interpretations of the pattern and causes of this development


• understand how ideas and ideologies are shaped by their historical contexts


• organise material and articulate arguments effectively in writing, bothunder timed conditions and in assessed coursework 


• demonstrate familiarity with bibliographical conventions and mastery of library skills.

Additional outcomes:
The module also aims:
' to encourage students to think independently
' to help students develop good oral and written communication skills
' to develop the effectiveness of students in group situations
' to develop IT skills through the use of relevant resources.

Outline content:
In 1994 during the course of one hundred days about 800,000 people were killed by their neighbours, government militia, and soldiers. The killing rate of the Rwanda genocide was higher than even the Holocaust. How was it possible for a ruling clique to mobilize the majority of a nation's population to strike out in this manner against family and neighbours? What was the role of the colonial legacy? How has Rwanda succeeded in retaining peace and reconciliation since 1994?

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Teaching is by eight two-hour seminars over one term. Students are reminded to email their tutors for help and advice whenever needed and to note office hours.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars		17
Guided independent study:		83
Total hours by term	0	100	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	50
Written assignment including essay	50

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Written exam 50% 

one 1-hour unseen paper requiring 1 answer

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

One written assignment of c. 1,250 words, to be submitted via Blackboard on Turnitin, by 12 noon on the submission deadline in Week 11 specified on the module site on Blackboard. Five marks will be deducted if the coursework exceeds 1,312 words (i.e. 5% over the word limit).

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

Where a re-sit is permitted, students will be assessed on the failed element(s) only in August. Any element(s) already passed will be carried forward if it bears a confirmed mark of 40% or more. The module mark will be capped at a maximum of 40%. Failed coursework must be re-submitted by 12 noon on the third Friday of August.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 14 September 2023