Amsterdam: A Historical Introduction

COURSE OBJECTIVE
]The learning goals are gaining basic knowledge (concepts and theories) about urban history, in particular related to the spatial dimensions of urban history, and being able to answer written questions about that; also applying urban history knowledge and insight on concrete case-studies, with the aid texts, maps, concrete objects, and other visual materials. Forming an opinion on issues such as heritage questions and communicating those to several types of readership is also an important aim of this course.

COURSE CONTENT
This course is an excellent opportunity to acquire knowledge about and insight in Urban History. The course has a spatial-historical focus. Key-words are social-economic and ecological history, architecture, culture, urban design, and heritage. How did a town develop and how can this be explained? What plans existed for city development and who decided about choices? What were and are characteristic buildings? Who migrated to the town and who lived where? How does a town relate to its natural environment like water bodies and to the surrounding countryside? How does a town organize its hygiene, like drinking water an green space? The course presents the urban history of Amsterdam from the Middle Ages until the early 21st century.This course is attended by students from many nationalities and contributes to your skills to operate in an international classroom.

TEACHING METHODS
Lectures, seminars, assigments, and weekly excursions (practicum) on foot and by bike.

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
Written assignments (20%) and a final written exam (80%). Presence at lectures and excursions is mandatory.

RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND KNOWLEDGE
A first year (level 100) course in history or architectural history or urban studies.

REMARKS
This course is one of the three core modules focused on spatial history of the minor 'Amsterdam Urban History.' The others are 'Amsterdam: Global Historical Perspectives' and 'Amsterdam: Comparing Heritage Projects'.