Will I have access to the content once the course is over?
Yes, you will have access to the course for two months from the starting date, so you can come back and review any content.
Are the videos downloadable?
No, the videos are not available for download. However, there is some content that is downloadable, such as the transcripts for all videos and some additional files.
I am busy on the dates of two-week courses, will there be others?
Yes, we run both two-week courses up to three times a year. You can follow us on social media or sign up to our newsletter so you are the first to know when we publish our dates.
What level of Latin do I need to attend the Latin European Medieval Palaeography course?
We don’t ask for a specific level or knowledge of Latin to join the course. However, a basic familiarity with the language would be helpful to aid you separate words and know how to resolve abbreviations.
Can I take the Latin European Medieval and the Reading English Handwriting
courses simultaneously?
No, both courses are considered to be full time, therefore only one should be pursued at the time.
Are your short courses credit bearing at Durham University?
No, the courses are not credit bearing.
Do I need to be a Durham or a university student to join?
No, our short courses are open to anyone.
What level are the courses aimed at? Do I need any specific qualifications?
These are an introductory courses, so we do not expect students to have any specific palaeography qualifications.
What computer equipment/ software do I need to complete the course?
As this is an online course, a fast Internet connection is important. It is advisable to download Zoom beforehand, as our live sessions take place on this platform. Also, please make sure your Internet browser – our recommended browser is Google Chrome – is up to date and can stream videos in the same way YouTube does.
I am based in a different time zone from the UK, will I still be able to take part in the live sessions?
Yes, the timing of our live sessions are designed to accommodate people joining us from different time zones.
Please specify your preferred live session time(s) when you apply to our two-week courses, or simply join your preferred optional Q&A session during our one-week courses.
Can you provide me with formal recognition of having taken/having a place on the course?
Successful applicants will receive their offer of a place via email. After completion of a two-week, you will be awarded a certificate of attendance. We do not currently certificates for our 1-week courses. If you need us to provide proof that you have taken a 1-week course, please email study.imems@durham.ac.uk.
Is attendance at live sessions compulsory?
Attendance at 1-hour-long live sessions in our two-week courses is mandatory, and is required on a daily basis throughout the course. Please get in touch with the course tutor if you have any concerns about this.
Attendance at the two Q&A sessions during the 1-week course is entirely optional. You can attend one, both, or neither of the Q&A sessions, depending on your preference.