Major World Powers from Napoleon to Kaiser Wilhelm II, 1805-1914

This course is available for enrolment.

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Course code: S4NH

This course will cover national and international power between 1805 and 1914 and will cover the dynamic links between economic, political, social and military changes in the major world powers during this time period.

when: From 25 Sep 2026 to 04 Dec 2026
Friday 10:00-12:00 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

This course will cover national and international power between 1805 and 1914 and will cover the dynamic links between economic, political, social and military changes in the major world powers during this time period.

What can students expect?

It will give the students who study this course a much greater understanding of the dynamics between economic, political, military and social changes and competition between the major world powers over the period between Napoleon’s bid for world power and the lead-up to the outbreak of World War I. Students will be able to have a greater grasp of what the conditions and factors affecting the key major states in world affairs during discreet time intervals during this time period. They will then be able to see how the economic and social changes that were taking place in each nation were directly influencing each nations military, diplomatic and strategic position and vis-à-vis how this altered the position between the competing nations.

Late starters allowed?

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

Previous experience required?

No

What is the progression route?

Joining other history courses

Are there any extra costs?

No

Work set between sessions?

Some suggested reading on the topic that we have covered each week.

What should students bring?

Pen and note pad to write down notes.

Teaching method/style?

I plan to use the following methods of teaching during my lessons. 

<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 the statesman of the 19th and 20th century.</li>
<li>Interactive video/audio learning. I have helped facilitate this approach during the current sessions with the tutor in a number of lessons. 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</li>
<li>Pictorial and cartographic aides. I plan to print out a number of 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>