An Analysis of Teaching History at the Under-Graduate Level in Dibrugarh University

Abstract

History is the study of the past, including the study of change and continuity over time. According to historian Peter Stearns, “the past causes the present, and so the future. Sometimes fairly recent history will suffice to explain a major development, but often we need to look further back to identify the causes of change; and only through studying history can we understand what elements of an institution or a society persists despite change.” Studying history not only trains students to place events in historical perspective, it also develops research skills and sharpens students’ analytical thinking. But the subject has been losing its status in Assam as a discipline of study in all the levels of educational system. Very few students opted it as a subject of study due to its less scope in job market. Moreover, the social perception regarding this subject is also negative. People who hear the words history class often think of boring lectures and lists of important dates to remember. In this context it is hoped that a study regarding proper teaching history and the problems associated with this and its findings and suggestions will go a long way in making the teaching of history interesting, inspirational and effective.