The Future of the Past: AI and the Study of History
HIST 3728
3 hours
The Future of the Past: AI and the Study of History
Course Description
Exploration of how historians can use artificial intelligence (AI) tools, especially large language models, to support historical research and writing. Emphasizing transparency, critique, and reflective practice, students will learn to use AI as a thought partner to enhance their understandings and analyses of primary and secondary sources. Students will also critically evaluate the limits and possibilities of AI for historical scholarship.
Athena Title
AI and the Study of History
Pre or Corequisite
One course in HIST or CSCI or ENGL or COMM or CMLT or third- or fourth-year student standing
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will be able to use generative AI tools as research aids to support historical inquiry—by brainstorming, analyzing source material, and testing lines of argument.
Students will be able to critically evaluate AI outputs in relation to historical evidence, disciplinary methods, and ethical standards.
Students will be able to differentiate between their own analytical voice and AI-generated content, documenting their process with transparency and integrity.
Students will be able to interpret and contextualize primary and secondary historical sources, with and without the assistance of AI tools.
Students will be able to produce clear, persuasive historical writing, totaling at least 20 pages, that reflects revision, argumentation, and engagement with evidence.
Students will be able to reflect on the implications of AI for historical knowledge production, including its affordances, risks, and disciplinary challenges.
