Megatrends in Global History 1914 - 2026

This course is available for enrolment.

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Course code: S3NH

A journey through time to discover and explore the Megatrends that have influenced and impacted global history over the last 500 years.

when: From 15 Apr 2027 to 24 Jun 2027
Thursday 13:00-15:00 10 weeks
Tutor: Neil Harrison

where

location to be advised

fees

full fee for this course £168.00, concession fee £102.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

Come and join me on a journey through time as we discover and explore the Megatrends that have influenced and impacted global history over the last 500 years.

What can students expect?

This course provides a longitudinal, thematic analysis of global history from 1914 to 2026, focusing on "megatrends"—long-term, transformative shifts that have reshaped societies, economies, military stature and the environment. Moving beyond traditional nation-state narratives, students will analyse how globalisation, demographic shifts, technological advancement, environmental change, imperialism and shifting economic and military power dynamics have transformed human existence from the early modern era through to the present day. The course starts at the very beginning of World War I and reviews long-term trends across the 20th century, including shifts in global power structures from 1945 to 2026.

Late starters allowed?

Yes. They could join up to the 3rd lesson of each term.

Previous experience required?

No

What is the progression route?

Joining other history courses

Are there any extra costs?

No

Work set between sessions?

Yes. There is some reading material on the topic that we have covered each week but this is entirely optional.

What should students bring?

Pen and note pad to write down notes.

Teaching method/style?

<ol>
<li>Lecture. I plan to use this style of teaching as one of the primary ways I will communicate with my students</li>
<li>Direct Instruction. I plan to use this as a way of reinforcing some of the key points I have taught</li>
<li>Guided discussion. I will actively ask open questions and allow students to participate and facilitate a very open culture within the class</li>
<li>Case based learning. Occasionally, I plan to ask the students to work in groups and discuss the issues faced by British Politicians in the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. </li>
<li>Interactive video/audio learning. Using both video and audio material from the time it really brings a lot of the things that we learn in the classroom to life, rather than abstract concepts. This has proven very popular with the students and helped in reinforcing the learning during my current lessons.</li>
<li>Pictorial and cartographic aides. I plan to print out several pictures, photos and charts to demonstrate to the students in a practical visible form the subjects and topics we have covered off during each lesson.</li>
</ol>

Course Cancellations and Refunds

If we cancel your course

<ul>
<li>You will receive a full refund of course fees.</li>
<li>We are not responsible for any additional costs, such as materials already purchased.</li>
</ul>

If you cancel

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: refund minus a 20% administration fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no refund provided.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
</ul>

Refund processing

<ul>
<li>Refunds for online or telephone enrolments will be made via the original payment method within 14 days of approval. </li>
<li>If you enrolled in the office, you will need to come in with your payment card to arrange a refund.</li>
</ul>

Transfers

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: transfer minus a 10% transfer fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no transfer provided.</li>
<li>All transfers are subject to availability.</li>
<li>Transfers between Language levels may be possible with less than 7 days notice, subject to availability.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
<li>If we cancel your course, and you wish to transfer to another course this will be free of charge.</li>
</ul>

Illness and non-attendance

<ul>
<li>We recognise that illness and unforeseen circumstances may arise. However, please note that we are unable to offer refunds, credits, or transfers for missed sessions due to ill health or non-attendance.</li>
</ul>