History: English canals - An advanced study

This course is idea for those who want to spend time learning something new from the comfort of their own home. There will be a range of different teaching and learning methods to encourage you to be actively involved in your learning.You will be invited to undertake work to support your course outside the class and in particular there will be an assignment that will involve a study of your local canal to see how it could be developed and increase income to fund its upkeep. Suggestions on areas to research will be given.

All learners will be encouraged to report back their findings to the rest of the class. You may use photographs if you have any, otherwise the tutor will draw examples from his extensive collection. You will be encourage to be actively involved in supporting your local canal, either through the Canal and River Trust or through a local group if your local canal is being restored. This will strengthen connections to the wider community. Sessions will be delivered through PowerPoint presentation, discussion and debate, with students encouraged to contribute and enjoy the course. A range of handouts will be provided on Canvas. No pre reading is required, but research on the subject on the internet or in the library may be helpful. Recommended books:- The Canals of Britain: The Comprehensive Guide by Stuart Fisher. Adlard Coles Nautical 2017. Narrow Boat by LTC Rolt. The History Press Ltd 2009. Emma Smith Maiden’s Trip – A Wartime Adventure on the Grand Union Canal. Bloomsbury Publishing. Reprinted 2011.