Databases for historians

Course Details

The aim of this course is to provide students with an introduction to database techniques appropriate for historical research, with the focus very much on the concepts of good database design and the creation of high-quality historical data. The course is taught through a mixture of formal lectures and 'hands-on' practical classes in which students are provided with practical guidance on the use of commercially-available database software packages. 

The module covers a broad range of skills and techniques:

• Starting with data manipulation in terms of searching, sorting, and editing records, and introducing the main methods of modelling historical data for computer-based analysis. 
• Methods of data collection and data entry are also discussed, together with the principles of coding. 
• The remainder of the course considers the general presentation and publication of historical research findings in terms of the design, calculation and production of tables, charts basic figures, and associated graphics. 

The module does not require any previous specialist knowledge of computing or training in mathematics, though a working familiarity with Microsoft Windows is necessary.

The course is open to postgraduates, academics and all who are interested in using databases to organise or analyse historical data. 

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Please note that this course will be taking place in-person only, and that the number of places available is limited.

In order to provide an interactive, dynamic short course experience the IHR requires a minimum number of delegates to run the short course. If a course is cancelled due to low enrolment, delegates will be offered the option of a refund or a transfer on to a different date.