This is an introductory course for first-year students of Literature & Society (English), which aims to acquaint students with the field of literary research. Using the production of an academic research paper as a framework, students will be introduced to such topics as: setting up a research project, finding and documenting sources, academic integrity, avoiding plagiarism, and presenting research findings. In addition, through a selection of various academic articles and argumentative essays, written by professionals in the field of literary studies, the course offers students the opportunity to study diverse modes of scholarly rhetoric closely and, on the basis of that, enhance their own argumentative and composition skills. This course is very much student-driven. This means that students are responsible for their own learning process and progress. Enthusiasm for literature, and a willingness to evaluate your work critically are essential to your success in this course. Please note that attendance is mandatory for this course.

Contact hours listed under a course description may vary due to the combination of lecture-based and independent work required for each course therefore, CEA's recommended credits are based on the ECTS credits assigned by VU Amsterdam. 1 ECTS equals 28 contact hours assigned by VU Amsterdam.