Module Specification - le.ac.uk · 002 Online test 35 003 Essay (1,500 words) 65 Period: Semester 1 Occurence: A Coordinator: Robert Garner Mark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme Academic

Module Specification

No. Assessment Description Weight % Qual Mark Exam Hours Ass't Group Alt Reass't

001 Essay (1,500 words) 50002 Examination (Short and Longer questions) (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Stephen CookeMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme

Academic Year: 2020/1Module Level: Year 1Scheme: UGDepartment: Politics and International RelationsCredits: 15

Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to:• Recognise, interpret and apply core concepts in political philosophy• Discuss key schools of political thought. • Evaluate the nature and methods of political philosophy.

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a combination of lectures and tutorials. There will be TWO one-hour lectures per week, sixteenin total. There will be eight tutorials beginning in week two of the semester. Lectures will introduce students to a topic and willidentify the main issues and themes for discussion. These themes will then be explored further in the tutorial format withstudents taking the lead in discussion.

Assessment Methods1,500 word Essay (50%)Exam (50%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites

Excluded Combinations-

Lectures 16Seminars

Practical Classes & WorkshopsTutorials 8

FieldworkProject Supervision

Guided Independent Study 126Demonstration

Supervised time in studio/workshopWork Based Learning

PlacementYear Abroad

Total Module Hours 150

Student Workload (hours)

PL1011 Political Concepts

Last Published: 17 May 2020


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading and reflecting on essential and recommended material from the electronic reading listPreparation for tutorials, including for group discussions Planning, preparation and writing of assessed courseworkFurther independent reading around the subjectRevision from notes and further reading

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on return of formative coursework and essays;Set reading supported with structured questions with follow on discussion and feedback in tutorials/seminars;Tutor feedback during office hours;Assessment preparation sessions

PL1011 Political Concepts




001 Literature Review (1,000 words) 35002 Examination (Final) 65 2

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Stephen HopkinsMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to:• Demonstrate an understanding of the political systems and institutions of a number of European states.• Systematically compare and contrast the political system of different European states.• Demonstrate an understanding of how the design of political systems shapes political outcomes.


Assessment MethodsLiterature review (35%)Exam (65%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWeekly guided reading; preparation of critical reading notes for discussion in tutorials; planning, preparation and writing ofassessed essay; revision from notes and further guided reading.

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on assessed work;Set reading supported with structured questions with follow on discussion and feedback in tutorials;Tutor feedback during office hours;Assessment preparation sessions

Lectures 16Seminars








PL1012 Comparative European Politics




001 Online Test 35002 Examination (Final) 65 2

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Bleddyn BowenMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to:(a) Explain the nature and evolution of international politics in the Cold War era 1945-1989.(b) Recognise the origins and development of the Cold War and the role of principal actors during it(c) Identify key events and technologies, and consider their importance to the Cold War era(d) Assess the merits of the schools of historiographical thought on the major debates of the Cold War.

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a combination of lectures and tutorials. There will be TWO one-hour lectures per week, sixteenin total. There will be eight tutorials beginning in week two of the semester. Lectures will introduce students to a topic and willidentify the main issues and themes for discussion. These themes will then be explored further in the tutorial format withstudents taking the lead in discussion

Assessment MethodsOnline Test (35%)Exam (65%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading and reflecting on essential and recommended material from the electronic reading list Preparation for tutorials,including for group discussionsPlanning, preparation and writing of assessed coursework Further independent reading around the subjectRevision from notes and further readingWithin this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with: Tutor feedback during officehours;Assessment preparation segments integrated in lectures

Lectures 16Seminars








PL1015 The Global Cold War: International Relations 1945-1989




001 Essay (1,500 words) 50002 Examination- 4 short questions (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Kelly StaplesMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to:• Identify and discuss key themes, issues, and events in International Relations since 1989• Assess the scope and limits of order, integration and cooperation in International Relations since 1989• Assess the scope and limits of disorder, disintegration and conflict in International Relations since 1989• Evaluate the impact of, and relations between, a range of actors in International Relations since 1989• Communicate informed evaluatoins of post-Cold War international relations in appropriate written form.


Assessment MethodsEssay (1,500 words) 50%Exam (4 short questions) 50%

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL1016 Order and Disorder: International Relations 1989 to the Present



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWeekly guided reading; preparation of critical reading notes for discussion in tutorials; preparation of non-assessedpresentations; planning, preparation and writing of assessed essay; revision from notes and further guided reading.


PL1016 Order and Disorder: International Relations 1989 to the Present




002 Online test 35003 Essay (1,500 words) 65

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Robert GarnerMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to:•Demonstate an understanding of some key facts relating to political analysis, approaches to politics, democracy and theoriesof the state•Demonstrate an understanding of a variety of topic in politics, power and ethics•Demonstrate academic integrity in their submitted work through appropriate use of academic citation and referencingconventions in their discipline (for example in directly quoting or paraphrasing the work of others)

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a combination of lectures and tutorials. There will be two one-hour lectures per-week (16 in total)and one tutorial a week (8 in total). Lectures will introduce students to a topic and these themes will be explored in greaterdepth in a tutorial format.

In this module the importance and role of demonstrating academic integrity in academic work will be explained. Furthermore,this module upholds the university’s regulations on academic misconduct by clearly explaining to all students what constitutesplagiarism, collusion and other unfair advantages in assessment (including clear definitions and examples) and by providing afamiliarity with the penalties for academic misconduct. The module will provide explicit guidance on how to demonstrate academic integrity, how to acknowledge the work of othersappropriately and avoid plagiarism and collusion, including explicit training in how to reference any relevant type of existingwork.

This will be delivered through a combination of course materials, appropriately contextualised instruction and experientiallearning opportunities, and the compulsory completion by each student of an on-line tutorial on avoiding plagiarism, which willbe recorded.

Assessment MethodsOnline test 35%Essay 65%

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL1019 Politics, Power and Ethics



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesOn-line tutorial on avoiding plagiarismWeekly guided reading, drawn from an electronic reading listPreparation for the weekly tutorialPreparation for the testPlanning, preparation and writing of the essay

PL1019 Politics, Power and Ethics




001 Coursework (1,000 words) 35002 Examination (Final) 65 2

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Myriam FotouMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to:1. Identify the basic theoretical debates about economics and development, particularly the free market versus statist views ofdevelopment2. Assess the development of the world economy over the last 100 years and the connection between politics and economicsin this process3. Evaluate the significance of neoliberalism in characterising the contemporary world economy4. Critically examine the operation of the global economy in terms of power and wealth differentials.


Assessment MethodsCoursework (1,000 words)- 35%Exam- 65%

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL1021 Power in the World Economy



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading and reflecting on essential and recommended material from the electronic reading listPreparation for tutorials, including for group discussions Planning, preparation and writing of assessed courseworkRevision from notes and further reading


PL1021 Power in the World Economy




001 Portfolio (1,500 words) 40002 Essay (2,000 words) 60



Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:

Recognise the major themes and concepts in IR;Critically engage with and challenge ‘common sense’ understandings of key issues in international politics;Identify and interpret the key assumptions that underpin the core themes in IR;Apply a reflexive approach to the study of core themes and concepts in IR.

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a combination of lectures and tutorials. There will be two one-hour lectures per week (to a totalof 16) plus eight tutorials beginning in week 2 of the semester. Lectures will introduce students to a topic and identify the mainconcepts, themes and issues for discussion. These will then be explored further in tutorials, where students will take the leadin discussions.

Assessment MethodsPortfolio (1,500 words)Essay (2,000 words)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL1022 Key Concepts in International Relations



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowlede, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on the virtual learning environment, and engaging with other recommended materialPreparation for tutorials, including for group discussions and student presentations Planning, preparation and writing of assessed courseworkMeetings in tutor office hours

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on assessed work;Set reading supported with structured questions with follow on discussion and feedback in tutorials/seminars;Assessment preparation sessions

PL1022 Key Concepts in International Relations




001 Blog post 1 (700 words) 40002 Blog post 2 (700 words) 60




Assess key concepts in the context of specific case studies of post-Cold War order and disorder;Evaluate the implications of key events and developments for our understanding of post-Cold War international relations;Assess the challenges of order and justice in post-Cold War international relation;Commuicate informed judgments and reflections in concise written blog posts.

Teaching and Learning Methods6 one hour lectures2 one hour tutorials1 one hour practical classes on blogging1 two hour film/documentary session (supervised time)

Assessment MethodsTwo blog posts (700 words each)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 6Seminars



Guided Independent Study 139Demonstration 1

Supervised time in studio/workshop 2Work Based Learning




PL1116 Case Studies in Post-Cold War (Dis-)order



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesIntroductory post to Blackboard discussion form outlining central argument of their essay for PL1016A (semester 1)Review of University study guides: "What is critical reading" and "What is critical writing?"Review of primary sources for cases provided via reading listReading of secondary literature provided via reading listTaking notes in preparation for tutorials and assessmentsWriting first assessed blog entry and posting it to Blackboard discussion form (and Turnitin)Familiarisation with assessment criteria and provision of formative peer feedback of peer blog entries via Blackboarddiscussion forumWriting and submitting second assessed blog entry, taking into account peer assessment


PL1116 Case Studies in Post-Cold War (Dis-)order




001 Article Summary (800 words) 30002 Reflective Blog Post and Comments (700 words) 10003 Literature Review (1,200 words) 60




- Work effectively in a study group to apply key concepts relating to Politics, Power and Ethics to specific case studies- Accurately articulate the themes and conclusions of an article- Analyse academic sources on a selected case study in Politics, Power or Ethics- Reflect on and articulate motivations, strengths and experience of developing one or more transferable skills

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module comprises the following timetabled sessions:

5 one hour lectures (Introduction to the module and 4 case studies)4 one hour tutorials (one on each case study)5 one hour practical workshops (Preparing a Bibliography; Group dynamics and effective team working; Summarising Articles;Doing Literature Reviews; Developing Self-awareness)

Building on the core academic content, the module will also provide explicit guidance on the assessments. There is also clearguidance on how to identify personal motivations, strengths and development areas, and how to develop transferable skills,including group work.

Assessment MethodsArticle Summary (800 words)Reflective Blog Post and Comments (700 words)Assessed coursework (1,200 words)

Pre-Requisites

Co-RequisitesPL1019


Lectures 5Seminars

Practical Classes & Workshops 3Tutorials 4







PL1119 Case Studies in Politics, Power and Ethics



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReview of University study guides: "What is critical reading" and "What is critical writing?";Review of sources for cases provided via reading list;Reading of secondary literature provided via reading list;Work in study group to apply key concepts to case studies;Taking notes in preparation for tutorials and assessments;Activities on self-awareness and reflection on group work; Arranging meetings in tutor office hours.

PL1119 Case Studies in Politics, Power and Ethics




001 Textual Analysis Exercise (1,500 words) 40003 Assessed Essay (2,500 words) (Final) 60

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Laura BraceMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesAt the end of this module, typical students should be able to: 1) Identify and describe the arguments and key concepts developed in the thought of five political thinkers, and their influenceon political theory2) Analyse the writings of key political thinkers using the original texts as source material3) Evaluate the model of the social contract as a way of approaching political theorising4) Synthesise the ideas of the key political thinkers studied on the module with the academic literature written about them

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a combination of lectures and tutorials. There will be two one-hour lectures per week (to a totalof 16), plus eight tutorials beginning in week 2 of the semester. Lectures will introduce students to the key political thinkersand identify the main concepts, themes and issues for discussion. The tutorials will explore the texts themselves in moredepth, using extracts to open up the discussion, and to give students the opportunity to develop their skills in textual analysis.

Assessment Methods1,500 word textual analysis exercise (40% of the total marks); 2,500 word assessed essay (60%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL2011 Political Ideas



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading the relevant sections of the set textsReading recommended material from the electronic reading list, and in particular relevant journal articlesReading course material on the virtual learning environment, and engaging with other recommended material such as radioprogrammes and podcastsPreparation for tutorials, including for student presentations on the extractsPlanning, preparation and writing of assessed coursework

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on assessed work;Set reading supported with structured questions with follow on discussion and feedback in tutorials/seminars;Tutor feedback during office hours;Assessment preparation sessions

PL2011 Political Ideas




001 Portfolio (2,000 words) 50002 Essay (2,000 words) 50



Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to: - Identify and explain key theoretical approaches to international relations- Show how classic texts have informed the theorisation of international relations - Interpret and evaluate prominent theoretical claims about international relations- Apply key concepts and claims to contemporary international relations- Differentiate between theories of international relations

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module is taught through lectures and tutorials. There are two one-hour lectures per week (to a total of 16) and a total ofeight tutorials. Lectures identify and explain the basics of the international theories, and outline the influence of classic texts.In tutorials, tutors facilitate discussion and evaluation of the concepts and claims associated with the classic texts and keyinternational theories. Between lectures and tutorials, students engage in guided independent learning (see below).

Assessment MethodsEssay (2,000 words)Portfolio (2,000 words)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWeekly guided reading; preparation of structured summaries for discussion in tutorials and inclusion in assessed portfolio;preparation of non-assessed presentations; planning, preparation and writing of essay.

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on assessed work;Set reading supported with structured questions with follow on discussion and feedback in tutorials/seminars;Tutor feedback during office hours;Assessment preparation sessions.

Lectures 16Seminars








PL2015 International Theory




001 Essay (2,000 words) 50002 Examination 50 2

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Richard WhitakerMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesStudents should be able to: - Identify and explain the process of European integration- Analyse the operation of the European Union as a political system- Evaluate the European Union's actions in specific policy areas


Assessment MethodsAssessed Essay of 2,000 words worth 50% of the module marks and a two hour essay-based Examination worth 50% of themodule marks.

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL2016 European Union Politics



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowlede, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on the virtual learning environment, and engaging with other recommended material (e.g. the moduleconvenor's Twitter account)Preparation for tutorials, including for group discussions and student presentations Planning, preparation and writing of assessed courseworkRevision from notes and further reading

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on assessed work;Set reading supported with structured questions with follow on discussion and feedback in tutorials;Tutor feedback during office hours;Assessment preparation sessions.

PL2016 European Union Politics




001 Assessed Essay (2,000 words) 50002 Examination 2 Hours (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Tara McCormackMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesStudents should be able to:- Identify and interpret traditional theoretical approaches to international security.- Identify and interpret 'critical' approaches to international security, including human security.- Evaluate a number of post Cold War issues in international security studies, for example, climate change, 'new' terrorism.- Evaluate the extent to which the end of the Cold War has changed the way we look at security.- Assess a number of post Cold War themes and issues in international security, for example the changing role of the state,liberty and security.


Assessment Methods50% coursework (consisting of a 2,000 word Assessed Essay), 50% 2 hour examination.

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL2018 International Security Studies



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowlede, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on the virtual learning environment, and engaging with other recommended material Preparation for tutorials, including for group discussions and student presentations Planning, preparation and writing of assessed courseworkRevision from notes and further reading


PL2018 International Security Studies




001 Essay (2,000 words) 50002 Examination (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Andrew FutterMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn the successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Identify and interpret the key aspects of contemporary US foreign policy- Evaluate the role played by different branches of government in foreign policy making- Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the way in which different Presidents have approached foreign policy making after theCold War- Critically examine the key cases, issues and themes that face contemporary US foreign policy makers

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a combination of lectures and tutorials. There will be TWO one-hour lectures per week, sixteenin total. There will be EIGHT tutorials beginning in week two of the semester. Lectures will introduce students to a topic andwill identify the main issues and themes for discussion. These themes will then be explored further in the tutorial format withstudents taking the lead in discussion.

Assessment MethodsEssay (2,000 words) - 50%Exam (2 hours) - 50%

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWeekly guided reading; preparation of critical reading notes for discussion in tutorials; preparation of non-assessedpresentations; planning, preparation and writing of assessed essay; revision from notes and further guided reading.


Lectures 16Seminars








PL2019 The Making of Contemporary US Foreign Policy




001 Essay (2,000 words) 50002 Examination (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Philip LynchMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Identify and explain the ideologies, electoral strategies, organisation and support bases of the main British political parties- Analyse party competiton in the UK's party systems- Evaluate various models of voting behaviour and their applicability to recent general elections- Evaluate continuity and change in the ideologies of the main British political parties- Assess the power relationships found within the main British political parties


Assessment Methods- Essay (2,000 words) - 50%- Exam (2 hours) - 50%

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL2020 Political Parties in Contemporary Britain



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowlede, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on the virtual learning environment, and engaging with other recommended material (e.g. a moduleTwitter account)Preparation for tutorials, including for group discussions and student presentations Planning, preparation and writing of assessed courseworkRevision from notes and further reading


PL2020 Political Parties in Contemporary Britain




001 Coursework Assignment (1,500 words) 40002 Assessed Essay (2,500 words) 60

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Helen DexterMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of this module students should be able to:· Use sex and gender as categories of analysis in relation to issues and debates in global politics;· Critically assess feminist scholarship on the state and public policy; participation and representation; globalisation; warand peace; and democracy and governance;· Evaluate the relationship between feminist and non-feminist approaches to studying politics and international relations


Assessment MethodsCoursework assignment of 1,500 words (worth 40% of the marks of the module). Assessed essay of 2,500 words (worth 60%of the marks of the module).

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL2021 Sex and Gender in Global Politics



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowlede, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on the virtual learning environment, and engaging with other recommended materialPreparation for tutorials, including for group discussions and student presentations Planning, preparation and writing of the assessed coursework and assessed essay

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on assessed work;Tutor feedback during office hours;Assessment preparation sessions

PL2021 Sex and Gender in Global Politics




001 Policy Report (1,500 words) 40002 Essay (2,500 words) 60

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Joshua BakerMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Identify and interpret the major themes and controversies in the academic FPA literature- Critically assess different theoretical approaches to FPA and their usefulness for understanding contemporary world politics- Apply different theoretical arguments in relation to the strategies of specific states on a particular issue;- Demonstrate an appreciation of some of the most important pressures and constraints faced by modern leaders, civilservants and diplomats in crafting a state’s foreign policy.

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a combination of lectures and tutorials. There will be two one-hour lectures per week (to a totalof 16) plus eight tutorials beginning in week 2 of the semester. Lectures will introduce students to a topic and identify the mainconcepts, themes and issues for discussion. These will then be explored further in tutorials, where students will take the leadin discussion

Assessment MethodsPolicy Report (1,500) - 40%Essay (2,500 words) - 60%

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL2022 Foreign Policy Analysis



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowlede, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on the virtual learning environment, and engaging with other recommended materialPreparation for tutorials, including for group discussions and student presentations Planning, preparation and writing of assessed courseworkRevision from notes and further reading


PL2022 Foreign Policy Analysis




001 Essay (2,000 words) 50002 Examination 50 2



Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Identify and explain the theoretical and conceptual debates regarding democratic governance in deeply divided societies; inparticular the consociational model- Apply relevant theories and concepts to case studies of attempts to promote democratic stability in divided polities- Analyse and evaluate the debates of the secondary literature, including the approaches to establishingstable democratic systems- Appraise the limits of majoritarian democracy in divided societies


Assessment Methods- Essay (2,000 words) - 50%- Exam (2 hours) - 50%

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWeekly guided reading; preparation of critical reading notes for discussion in tutorials; planning, preparation and writing ofassessed essay; revision from notes and further guided reading.


Lectures 16Seminars








PL2024 Governing Societies in Conflict




001 Assessed Coursework (1,500 words) 40002 Essay (2,500 words) 60



Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Demonstrate an understanding of and familiarity with some of the main topics in contemporary analytic political philosophy. - Critically assess various philosophical and theoretical arguments about social justice and its significance - Demonstrate an understanding of the nature and methods of political philosophy - Think critically, analytically, and conceptually about the subject matter.

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a combination of lectures and tutorials. There will be TWO one-hour lectures introducing thesubject and its methods in the first week. There will be 24 tutorials beginning in week two of the semester. Tutorials will besplit into a an initial student-led reading group introducing a key reading in the topic, then two further tutorials exploring theweekly topic from different perspectives. Students will take the lead in discussion.

Assessment MethodsAssessed Coursework (1,500 words) - 40%Essay (2,500 words) - 60%

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 2Seminars








PL2027 Contemporary Political Philosophy: Theories of Justice



Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activities Students are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading and reflecting on essential and recommended material from the electronic reading listPreparation for tutorials, including for group discussions Planning, preparation and writing of assessed courseworkFurther independent reading around the subjectRevision from notes and further reading Meetings in tutor office hours

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on assessed work;Set reading supported with structured questions with follow on discussion and feedback in tutorials/seminars;Assessment preparation sessions

PL2027 Contemporary Political Philosophy: Theories of Justice




001 Critical Review (1,500 words) 40002 Essay (2,500 words) 60

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Zakia ShirazMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Recognise key historical and contemporary themes, issues and problems in Latin American politics - Assess state formation and the emergence of democracy in Latin America- Appraise the nature of democracy in Latin America- Critically evaluate the academic literature on Latin American politics

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a combination of lectures and tutorials. There will be two one-hour lectures per week (to a totalof 16) plus eight tutorials beginning in week 2 of the term. Lectures will introduce students to a topic and identify the mainthemes, issues and issues for discussion. These will then be explored further in tutorials, where students will analyse primarysource material and work in sub-groups to explore country case studies.

Assessment Methods- Critical Review (1,500 words) - 40%- Essay (2,500 words) - 60%

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Lectures 16Seminars








PL2028 Latin American Politics



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesThis is research-led module in which students are introduced to primary source material such as speeches, declassifiedmaterial and policy sources. They will be provided with the following resources:

1) Clear guidance on assessment including the assessed critical reviewWeekly tutorial outline one week in advance of seminar that contains recommended reading from academic sources, links toprimary sources, and case study outlines with key questions/issues to explore in the tutorial2) List of online research resources including: Insight Crime, reports from the IMF, World Bank and NGOs, and key mediasites

Students will also undertake activities including:1) Preparation for tutorial discussions, presentations and sub-group work2) Planning for assessments including reflection on feedback on assessment plans, and writing of assessments.3) Office hour meetings to discuss course content, research skill development and assessment.

PL2028 Latin American Politics







Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Identify distinctive aspects of politics in the global south- Explain relevant dimensions of the relationship between the global south and global north- Apply relevant concepts to the politics of the global south- Interpret the politics of particular states in the global south- Evaluate theories pertinent to the politics of the global south


Assessment MethodsAssessed coursework (1,500 words) (40%)Essay (2,500 words) (60%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites

Excluded Combinations

Lectures 16Seminars








PL2029 Politics of the Global South



Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activities-Students are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading list;Reading course material on the virtual learning environment, and engaging with other recommended material (e.g. a moduleTwitter account);Preparation for tutorials, including for presentations and/or group discussions; Planning, preparation and writing of assessed coursework.


PL2029 Politics of the Global South




001 Online test 40002 Professional Practice Portfolio 60

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Lauren McLarenMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme



Demonstrate a sound knowledge of the major approaches to the study of political science and international relations;Demonstrate an ability to think critically about these approaches;Critically analyse published research in political science or international relations;Demonstrate an understanding of the basic elements of research design;Engage in critical self-reflection and articulate strengths, skills and development areas in a professional context

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a combination of three formats:1. Lectures. These will cover approaches to political science and political theory2. Workshops, in which members of staff set out research projects on which they are currently working and invite students tothink about the practicalities of such research in an interactive session3. Tutorials. These will be small group teaching sessions in which students discuss central elements of the module contentand work in small groups on appropriate tasks.

Assessment MethodsOnline test Professional Practice Portfolio

Pre-Requisites-

Co-RequisitesPL2095


Lectures 8Seminars

Practical Classes & Workshops 3Tutorials 5







PL2094 Political Analysis 1: Understanding political science research



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:

Reading recommended material from the electronic reading list Preparation for tutorials, notably for sub-group discussion; Preparation for the multiple-choice test; Meetings in tutor office hours;Completion of e-tray test;Arrangement of at least one appointment with the Career Development Service to get support and feedbak on their Portfolio(Part B);Selection and critical analysis of a journal article for Portfolio (Part A)

Students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with Meetings with academic staff and the Career Development Service;Structured feedback with comments on assessed work;Assessment preparation sessions

PL2094 Political Analysis 1: Understanding political science research




001 Dissertation research proposal (1,500 words) 50002 Dissertation research proposal poster (750 words) 50




Identify a topic in political science suitable for research in an undergraduate dissertation;Formulate and communicate a research proposal through a poster presentation;Identify and assess scholarly literature and primary sources relevant to the proposal.

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught through two formats:1. Lectures in which different elements of preparing for the undergradutate dissertation will be set out and discussed.2. Meetings with a potential and actual dissertation supervisor. These will be one-to-one meetings in which students willdiscuss their plans for a dissertation proposal and poster.

Assessment MethodsDissertation research proposal (1,500 words)Dissertation research proposal poster (750 words)

Pre-Requisites

Co-RequisitesPL2094


Lectures 7Seminars

Practical Classes & Workshops 2Tutorials

FieldworkProject Supervision 3






PL2095 Political Analysis 2: Preparing for your dissertation



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listPreparing their research proposal by reading literature on the subject area and using this to work out a research question.Preparing their research poster by working from the feedback on their research proposal, reading further on researchmethods and looking at examples of research posters.


PL2095 Political Analysis 2: Preparing for your dissertation




001 Essay (2,000 words) 40002 Research Report (3,000 words) 60



Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, successful students should be able to:- Explain and interpret contemporary Feminisms- Distinguish between the different 'waves' of feminism and evaluate their goals- Critically assess the impact of intersectionality on feminist theory- Assess the significance of particular issues such as prostitution, pornography, political representation, political protest andthe gender pay gap for feminism

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly three-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methodsincluding student-led discussions, tutor-led discussions, and sub-group work in which students address questions set inadvance, form working groups to discuss particular issues, prepare for debates and complete worksheets. Guidance on theassessed essay and the report will be provided in seminars, and students will be able to get feedback on their essay plans.

Assessment Methods2,000 word assessed essay (40%); 3,000 word report (60%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading module materials on Blackboard, and engaging with other recommended materialPreparation for seminars, in particular for sub-group discussions, debates and student presentationsPlanning, preparation and writing of the assessed essay and the report.

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on assessed work;Set reading supported with structured questions with follow on discussion and feedback in seminars;Tutor feedback during office hours;Assessment preparation sessions.

LecturesSeminars 30

Practical Classes & WorkshopsTutorials







PL3060 Feminism



PL3060 Feminism




001 Coursework (2,500 words) 50002 Examination 2 Hours 50 2

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Alex WaddanMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to: - Explain how the institution of the presidency relates to other parts of the American system of government.- Explain and interpret recent changes in the nature of Presidential power- Assess competing explanations of the nature of Presidential power.- Evaluate the performance of recent occupants of the office- Critically assess causal arguments in written form while synthesizing information from a range of sources

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methods, forexample: student-led discussions, tutor-led discussions, and sub-group work in which students address questions set inadvance and explore case studies. Guidance on how to plan for the assessed essay and prepare for the examination will beprovided in seminars, and students will be able to get feedback on the assessed essay plans.

Assessment Methods2-hour exam (50%), 2,500 word assessed essay (50%).

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3071 The American Presidency



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on Blackboard, and engaging with other recommended material (e.g. blogs about presidential powerand politics) Preparation for seminars, notably for sub-group discussions and student presentationsPlanning, preparation and writing of the assessed essay. Students are expected to seek feedback on their essay plans fromthe module leader.Revision from notes and further reading


PL3071 The American Presidency




001 Assessed Essay (2,500 words) 50002 Examination (Final) 50 2



Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module students should be able to:(a) Recognise and explain the rise of the environment as a political issue(b) Apply and evaluate the limits to growth debate(c) Apply and evaluate environmental ethics(d) Explain and interpret Green political thought

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methodsincluding tutor-led directed learning through powerpoint presentations, student-centred discussion, student presentations andgroup work. Guidance on the assessed essay, and the content and structure of the examination will be given in the seminars,including marking exercises.

Assessment MethodsAssessed essay of 2,500 words (worth 50% of the marks), two hour essay-based examination (50%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesPreparation for seminars, particularly for group work and student presentationsPlanning, preparation and writing of assessed essaysRevision from notes and further reading


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3076 Politics and the Environment




004 Dissertation - 10,000 words (Final) 100



Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to: - Plan and conduct an in-depth study of an aspect of Politics and International Relations- Develop skills in written communication and research- Identify and critically analyse appropriate literature and resources- Engage in self-directed research over a sustained period

Teaching and Learning MethodsDissertation supervision: students are required to meet with their supervisor at least every fortnight. In addition, there will besessions on dissertation research.

Students are advised to submit a Dissertation Plan for feedback.

Assessment Methods(With PL3095)Podcast with 1 page executive summary (10%)Dissertation- 10,000 words (90%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-RequisitesPL3095


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. This willinclude:Self-directed researchLocating and reading the relevant primary and secondary literaturePlanning, preparation and writing of the Dissertation. Students are expected to seek feedback on dissertation plans.Preparing for meetings with the Dissertation supervisor. Students are required to meet with their supervisor at least once afortnight.

Lectures 1Seminars

Practical Classes & Workshops 1Tutorials







PL3094 Dissertation 1




003 Dissertation - 10,000 words (Final) 100



Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to: - Conduct in-depth study of an aspect of Politics and International Relations- Develop skills in written communication and research- Identify and critically analyse appropriate literature and sources- Engage in self-directed research over a sustained period

Teaching and Learning MethodsDissertation supervision: students are required to meet with their supervisor at least every fortnight. In addition, there will besessions on dissertation research.

Students are advised to submit a Dissertation Plan for feedback.

Assessment Methods(With PL3094)- Podcast with executive summary (10%)- Dissertation (90%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-RequisitesPL3094


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. This willinclude:Self-directed researchLocating and reading the relevant primary and secondary literaturePlanning, preparation and writing of the Dissertation. Students are expected to seek feedback on dissertation plans and toreflect upon the feedback they receive on a draft chapter.Preparing for meetings with the Dissertation supervisor. Students are required to meet with their supervisor at least once afortnight.

LecturesSeminars








PL3095 Dissertation 2




001 Assessed Essay (2,500 words) 50002 Assessed Essay (2,500 words) 50






Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of this module, students should be able to:Demonstrate a detailed subject-specific knowledge of contemporary British Conservative politics;Evaluate the character and significance of Thatcherism;Assess the record of the Thatcher and Major governments; Assess the reasons for the decline and weakness of the Conservative Party in the 1990s and 2000sEvaluate the reasons for, and extent of, the Conservative Party's recovery since 2005

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methods, forexample: student-led discussions, tutor-led discussions, and sub-group work in which students address questions set inadvance, explore case studies and examine primary source material. Guidance on the assessed essays will be provided inseminars, and students will be able to get feedback on essay plans.

Assessment MethodsTwo assessed essays (2,500 words), each worth 50% of the marks

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites

LecturesSeminars



Guided Independent StudyDemonstration



Total Module Hours


PL3098 The Conservatives: Crisis and Recovery




Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on Blackboard, and engaging with other recommended material (e.g. a module Twitter account) Preparation for seminars, notably for sub-group discussions and student presentationsPlanning, preparation and writing of assessed essays. Students are expected to seek feedback on their essay plans from themodule leader, and reflect upon the feedback they receive on assessed essay 1.Meetings in tutor office hours.

PL3098 The Conservatives: Crisis and Recovery




001 Assessed essay of 1,500 words 30002 Research project of 3,500 words 70



Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to: - Explain the structure, procedures and officers of the UK Parliament- Critically appraise empirical studies of legislative behaviour- Conduct research on specific elements of Parliamentary activity

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module is taught by a three-hour weekly seminar and a day trip to Westminster. The module is co-taught with staff fromParliament such that four of the weekly seminars are jointly run by Richard Whitaker and Parliamentary clerks. Two of theother seminars include question and answer sessions with politicians. The trip to Westminster includes talks fromparliamentarians, sessions with parliamentary clerks and an opportunity to watch Commons' and Lords' business. The weeklyseminars include small group work in which students explore questions and reading set in advance and work with primarysource material. Guidance on the assessed essays is provided in seminars, and students are able to obtain feedback onessay plans.

Assessment MethodsAssessed essay of 1,500 words (30%); Research project of 3,500 words (70%).

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3106 Parliamentary Studies



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listCollecting materials from Parliament's website and other relevant websites, for the research project.) Preparation for seminars, notably for sub-group discussions and for engaging with Parliamentary clerks and politicians.Planning, preparation and writing of assessed essays and research projects. Students are expected to seek feedback on theiressay plans from the module leader, and reflect upon the feedback they receive on assessed essay 1.


PL3106 Parliamentary Studies




001 Assessed Essay (2,500 words) 50002 Assessed Coursework (2,500 words) 50



Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to: - Engage critically with debates on the UK's relationship with the EU, before and after Brexit- Analyse the impact of EU membership on British politics, particularly in relation to political parties and public opinion- Assess the rise, character and significance of Euroscepticism in the UK- Evaluate the reasons for the 2016 referendum vote to leave the EU, and the impact of Brexit on British politics

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methods, forexample: student-led discussions; tutor-led discussions; sub-group work in which students address questions set in advance,explore case studies and examine primary source material; and a simulation exercise. Guidance on the assessed essays andassessed coursework will be provided in seminars, and students will be able to get feedback on essay/coursework plans.

Assessment MethodsAssessed essay (2,500 words) (50%)Assessed Coursework (2,500 words) (50%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on Blackboard, and engaging with other recommended material (e.g. a module Twitter account) Preparation for seminars, notably for sub-group discussions and a simulation exercisePlanning, preparation and writing of assessed essays and coursework. Students are expected to seek feedback on theiressay/coursework plans from the module leader, and reflect upon the feedback they receive on the first assignment. Meetings in tutor feedback and support hours

LecturesSeminars 30








PL3107 Brexit and British Politics




001 Assessed Coursework (1,500 words) 30002 Assessed Essay (3,500 words) 70

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Alex WaddanMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to: - Demonstrate knowledge of key issues in contemporary US politics- Demonstrate understanding of some of the major theoretical interpretations of US politics- Construct arguments about how US politics has developed over time- Demonstrate detailed knowledge of a key issue in modern US politics- Critically assess causal arguments in written form while synthesizing information from a range of sources

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methods, forexample: student-led discussions, tutor-led discussions, and sub-group work in which students address questions set inadvance and explore case studies. Guidance on how to construct the coursework (portfolio) and plan for the assessed essaywill be provided in seminars, and students will be able to get feedback on essay plans.

Assessment MethodsAssessed coursework of 1,500 words (worth 30% of the module mark); assessed essay of 3,500 words (worth 70% of themodule mark).

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3114 American Political Development



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on Blackboard, and engaging with other recommended material (e.g. podcasts and blogs about USpublic policy and politics) Preparation for seminars, notably for sub-group discussions and student presentationsPlanning, preparation and writing of the portfolio and assessed essay. Students are expected to seek feedback on their essayplans from the module leader.


PL3114 American Political Development





Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Tara McCormackMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to: - Identify and explain significant general trends in contemporary conflict.- Critically assess the development of specific trends in contemporary conflict, for example, new forms of conflict in thedevelping world.- Critically assess the implications of new ways in which the developed world is engaging in conflict, for example,humanitarian intervention.- Evaluate the general significance of 'remote control warfare'.- Critically assess specific aspects of 'remote control warfare', for example the rise in the use of Private Military Contractors.


Assessment MethodsTwo assessed essays of 2,500 words, each worth 50% of the marks of the module.

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3116 The Changing Character of War



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on Blackboard, and engaging with other recommended material. Preparation for seminars, notably for sub-group discussions and student presentationsPlanning, preparation and writing of assessed essays. Students are expected to seek feedback on their essay plans from themodule leader, and reflect upon the feedback they receive on assessed essay 1.


PL3116 The Changing Character of War




001 Assessed Essay or Briefing Note (2,000 words) 40002 Assessed Essay (3,000 words) (Final) 60



Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to:- Explain key challenges to the theory and practice of universal human rights - Interpret key concepts related to human rights and/or to theories of global justice - Apply key concepts and theoretical claims to contemporary politics- Analyse texts, arguments and issues relevant to global justice and human rights- Evaluate the prospects for implementing global justice and/or universal human rights

Teaching and Learning MethodsA weekly three hour seminar will provide opportunities for small group and roundtable discussions; simulated role plays;presentations; and other group work.

Assessment MethodsAssessed Essay or Briefing Note of 2,000 words (40% of the total mark), assessed essay of 3,000 words (60% of the totalmark)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWeekly guided reading; preparation of structured summaries and evaluations of key texts for discussion in seminars;preparation for simulated role plays; preparation of non-assessed presentations; planning, preparation and writing ofassessed essay(s) and/or briefing note.

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on return of formative coursework; Set reading supported withstructured questions with follow on discussion and feedback in seminars; Tutor feedback during office hours; Assessmentpreparation sessions

LecturesSeminars






Total Module Hours


PL3118 Global Justice and Human Rights




106 Assessed Essay (2,500 words) 50107 Briefing Paper (2,500 words) 50

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Mark PhythianMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, successful students should be able to:- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the nature and role of intelligence.- Evaluate the ethical dilemmas generated by the practice of intelligence.- Engage in debates over the nature of intelligence failure.- Evaluate the role of intelligence oversight in a liberal democratic context.

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methods, forexample: student-led discussions, tutor-led discussions, and sub-group work in which students address questions set inadvance, explore case studies and examine primary source material. Guidance on assessed work will be provided inseminars, and students will have opportunities to discuss their assignment plans (i.e. essay and briefing).

Assessment Methods2,500 word assessed essay (50%); 2,500 words Briefing paper (50%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on Blackboard, and engaging with other recommended material (e.g use of CAIN website)Preparation for seminars, notably for sub-group discussions and student presentationsPlanning, preparation and writing of assessed essays. Students are expected to seek feedback on their essay plans from themodule leader.Revision from notes and further reading Meetings in tutor office hours.

LecturesSeminars 30








PL3119 The Politics of Intelligence







Intended Learning OutcomesOn succesful completion of the module students will be able to:• Demonstrate detailed knowledge of the idea of slavery in political thought• Engage critically with the major ethical and political questions raised within contemporary debates about slavery• Evaluate research on modern slavery and its implications for political debate• Critically appraise the importance of political ideas for understanding slavery.

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will taught by a weekly three-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methods,including student-led discussions, tutor-led discussions and sub-groups in which students work together to completeworksheets and in discussion forums. Guidance on the assessed essays will be provided in seminars, and students will beable to get feedback on their essay plans.

Assessment MethodsTwo assessed essays of 2,500 words, each worth 50% of the marks of the module.

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading module materials on Blackboard, and engaging with other recommended materialPreparation for seminars, in particular for sub-group discussions, debates and student presentationsPlanning, preparation and writing of the assessed essaysMeetings in tutor office hours

LecturesSeminars 30








PL3121 The Politics of Slavery




001 Assessed Essay (2,000 words) 30002 Examination 70 2



Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of this module, students should be able to demonstrate:* A thorough knowledge of the political legacies of the Northern Ireland conflict in the post-1998 era;* An understanding of the debates surrounding truth and reconciliation processes in Northern Ireland;* A familiarity with government and civil society contributions to this debate, including primary sources;* A critical engagement with academic debates concerning the politics of victimhood;* An evaluation of post-conflict political developments and social attitudes in Northern Ireland, with some comparativeanalysis.

Teaching and Learning Methods30 hours of seminars which will discuss in detail particular aspects of the legacies of conflict in Northern Ireland. For eachseminar, one or two students will undertake a 15-minute (approximately) presentation, examining in depth a specific seminarquestion, utilising visual aids, and critically engaging with the secondary literature. 120 hours of guided independent study.

Assessment MethodsAssessed essay of 2,000 words (worth 30% of the marks), two hour essay-based examination (70%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activities-

LecturesSeminars






Total Module Hours


PL3122 The Political Legacies of Conflict in Northern Ireland




001 Assessed Essay (2,500 words) 50002 Research Report (2,500 words) 50

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Ben ClementsMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to: (1) Identify and explain the main forms and classifications of political participation in Britain, including traditional and newerforms of participation, and individual and collective types of participation.(2) Apply relevant theoretical approaches which seek to explain why individuals and groups do and do not participate.(3) Critically assess broader trends and patterns in political participation and how these relate to debates surrounding thehealth and functioning of democracy in Britain

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methods.These will include: student-led discussions, tutor-led discussions, and small group work in which students address questions,explore case studies and examine primary source materials. Guidance on the assessed essay and assessed research reportwill be provided in seminars, and students will be able to get feedback on assignment plans.

Assessment MethodsAssessed essay of 2,500 words (50%), research report of 2,500 words (50%).

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3127 Political Participation in Britain



Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activities Students are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on Blackboard, and engaging with other recommended material (such as primary sources) Preparation for seminars, notably for small group discussions.Planning, preparation and writing of assessed essay and assessed research report. Students are expected to seek feedbackon their assignment plans from the module leader, and to reflect upon the feedback they receive for the assessed essay.


PL3127 Political Participation in Britain




001 Assessed Essay (2,500 words) 50002 Examination (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Andrew FutterMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to:- Explain and interpret the politics of nuclear weaponry- Evaluate the most important contemporary challenges created by nuclear weapons- Discriminate between and compare the costs and benefits of different strategies to limit the spread and prevent the futureuse of nuclear weapons- Analyse specific case-studies of nuclear weapons states’ thinking about nuclear weapons, and assess the impact on widerregional security dynamics and rivalries- Critically evaluate the difficulties and dynamics that face future policymakers in striving to increase international security andreduce the dangers of nuclear use


Assessment MethodsAssessed essay of 2,500 words (worth 50% of the module mark) and two-hour essay-based examination (worth 50% of themodule mark)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3129 The Politics of Nuclear Weapons



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading listReading course material on Blackboard, and engaging with other recommended material Preparation for seminars, notably for sub-group discussions and student presentationsPlanning, preparation and writing of assessed essays. Students are expected to seek feedback on their essay plans from themodule leader.Meetings in tutor office hours.

PL3129 The Politics of Nuclear Weapons




001 Portfolio (brief concept analysis 500 words and blog post 1000)(1,500 words)

30

002 Research Project (3,500 words) (Final) 70

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Simona GuerraMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of this module, students should be able to:1. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of current developments in Central and Eastern Europe, and the Western Balkans2. Assess the significance of the historical and political context in the post-communist region;3. Evaluate the wider theoretical concepts that underpin the process of democratization4. Demonstrate a systematic and critical understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/ornew insights in Central, Eastern and Southern European Politics

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methods, forexample: student-led discussions, tutor-led discussions, and sub-group work in which students address questions set inadvance, engage with role-plays and examine primary source material. Guidance on the assessed coursework and researchreport (in particular a research report will be uploaded on Blackboard) will be provided in seminars, and students will be ableto get support and feedback during the F&S Hours

Assessment MethodsOne portfolio (brief concept analysis 500 words and blog post 1000) (1,500 words) worth 30% of the marks for the module,one research project (3,500 words) worth 70% of the marks for the module.

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesEssential reading in advance to the seminar, reporting on that during the following seminar; submission of the group-workduring the seminar by email attachment, followed by informative feedback after the seminar (by email)

LecturesSeminars 30








PL3136 Democratization and EU Membership in Post-Communist Europe




001 Group Report (2,500 words), reassessed by Assessed Essay (2,500words)"

50

002 Assessed Essay (2,500 words) 50



Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module students should be able to: (1) Demonstrate an understanding of key theoretical and ethical issues associated with climate change (2) Be able to analyse policy using a philosophical framework (3) Understand the relationship between philosophical thinking about climate change and broader issues in politicalphilosophy and applied ethics. (4) Think critically, analytically, and conceptually about environmental justice.

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methods, forexample: student-led discussions, tutor-led discussions, sub-group work, and group-based presentations. Guidance on theassessed essays will be provided in seminars, and students will be able to get feedback on their group project.

Assessment MethodsGroup written report of 2,500 words (alternative assessment: assessed essay of 2,500 words); assessed essay of 2,500words.

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3140 Climate Change: Ethics, Issues, Justice



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading and reflecting on essential and recommended material from the electronic reading listPreparation for tutorials, including for group discussions Planning, preparation and writing of assessed courseworkFurther independent reading around the subjectRevision from notes and further reading Meetings in tutor office hours

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on assessed work;Set reading supported with structured questions with follow on discussion and feedback in tutorials/seminars;

PL3140 Climate Change: Ethics, Issues, Justice




001 Literature review (2,000 words) 40002 Research report (3,000 words) 60

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Zakia ShirazMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of the module, students should be able to: 1) Analyse the contemporary drug trade, and the societal, economic and political impact of the production, trafficking andconsumption of illicit drugs.2) Critically evaluate national and international drug control policies3) Assess academic and policy literature on the dynamics of the trade and international responses.

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar. Seminars will include a variety of learning and teaching methods, forexample: research presentations linked to the assessment, sub-group work in which students explore the dynamics of thedrug trade through case studies, writing workshops, and one-to-one feedback on plans of the literature review and researchreport.

Assessment MethodsLiterature review of 2,000 words (40%); Research report of 3,000 words (60%).

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesThis is research-led module in which students are guided to develop key skills in independent study. They will be providedwith the following resources:1) Weekly seminar outline one week in advance of seminar that contains recommended reading from academic and policysources, case study outlines with key questions/issues to explore in the seminar.2) List of online research resources including: Insight Crime, Congressional Service Research Reports and website, UNODCreports, and key media sites.3) Preparation for seminar discussions, presentations and sub-group work. 4) Planning for assessments, discuss and reflect on feedback on assessment plans, and writing of assessments.5) Office hour meetings to discuss course content, research skill development and assessment.

LecturesSeminars 30








PL3142 Politics of the International Drug Trade




001 Assessed Portfolio (1,500 words) 30002 Assessed Essay (3,500 words) 70



Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should have:

- An awareness of international migration key concepts- Ability to engage with the policy literature in migration studies- A good understanding of academic literatures and debates on international migration and security studies- Good knowledge of the relationship between international migration and the discipline of International Relations and itssubfields

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module comprises of 30 hours of seminars, 120 hours of directed reading and independent learning. It will be taught by aweekly 3-hour seminar, which will include various learning and teaching approaches, such as: tutor-led discussions, studentoral presentations and student-led discussions, pair and group work in which students address questions set in advance,explore case studies and examine primary source material. Guidance on the assessed portfolio and assessed essay will beprovided in seminars, and students will be able to get feedback on essay plans

Assessment MethodsAssessed portfolio (1,500 words) (30%)Assessed Essay (3,500 words) (70%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents are expected to engage in guided independent study to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. For thismodule, guided independent study will include:Reading recommended material from the electronic reading list and available course material on Blackboard; providingreading summariesPreparation for seminars for own oral presentations but also for topics assigned to groups.Planning, preparation and writing of assessed essays. Students are expected to seek feedback on their essay plans from themodule leader, and reflect upon the feedback they receive on the assessed portfolio.Meetings in tutor office hours.

LecturesSeminars 30








PL3143 International Migration in the Age of Securitisation



PL3143 International Migration in the Age of Securitisation




001 Executive Briefing Document (1,500 words) 30002 Essay (3,500 words) 70

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Bleddyn BowenMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme



- Explain the key events and drivers in global space history and the present.

- Interpret the meanings of space security and global threat perceptions of the space environment; critically engage withcontemporary military thought in outer space.

- Evaluate and apply a diverse range of empirical, conceptual, historical, and policy data regarding the uses of spacepowerand its political elements.

- Analyse texts, arguments and issues relevant to space security.

Teaching and Learning MethodsA weekly three hour seminar provides opportunities for: mini-lectures by the tutor, small group and roundtable discussions;role plays/crisis scenarios; student presentations; and other group work. Module also includes potential extra-curricularscreening and post-screening discussion of BBC documentary series 'The Space Race'.

Assessment MethodsOne executive briefing document of 1,500 words (worth 30% of the overall module mark), and one essay of 3,500 words(worth 70% of the overall module mark).

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3144 Politics and War in Outer Space



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWeekly guided reading; preparation of structured summaries and evaluations of key texts for discussion in seminars;preparation for simulated role plays; preparation of non-assessed presentations; planning, preparation and writing ofassessed essay and executive briefing document.


PL3144 Politics and War in Outer Space




001 Critical artefact analysis 1 (15 minute group presentation),reassessed by Assessed Coursework (1,000 words)"

20

002 Critical artefact analysis 2 (1,000 word report) 20003 Assessed Essay (3,000 words) 60

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Jamie JohnsonMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


001 Critical artefact analysis (1,000 word report) 25002 Assessed Essay (3,000 words) 75

Period: Semester 2Occurence: BCoordinator: Jamie JohnsonMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Critically engage with a range of feminist and postcolonial approaches to the study of war. - Reflect and respond in a nuanced and rigorous manner to the ethical and methodological challenges of researching warfrom feminist and postcolonial perspectives.- Critically interrogate and unpack the gendered and racialised logics through which contemporary political violence isnarrated, legitimised, remembered and resisted. - Articulate a curiosity and sensitivity to the limits of the discipline of war studies in order to situate mundane and everydaysocial practices within the production of contemporary political violence. - Demonstrate appropriate cognitive, communicative and transferable skills, such as the capacity for independent learning andresearch.

LecturesSeminars 30








PL3145 Gender, Race and War



Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught on the basis of ten weekly three-hour seminars. Seminars will be designed to encourage enquiry-based learning, drawing on a variety of methods, including but not limited to: student-led discussion, small group work, classdebates, role-plays, the interrrogation of primary source materials, informal group presentations, and the production ofcreative artistic expressions (such as posters and cartoons). All of these activities will draw upon and consolidate a series ofclearly defined learning aims and objectives for each seminar, which will guide the preparation and delivery of these sessions.Offering diverse pathways to participation will cater to varied student preferences in a way that fosters and enables deep,dynamic participatory and collaborative learning. Students will also be offered the opportunity to extend the potential forcollaborative learning through the running of voluntary student-led study groups which will aim to meet once a week outside ofclass.

The expectations for the assessed essays will be clearly established in the course guide. Additional guidance on theassessed essays will also take the form of a short workshop to run during the seminar series before the submission of bothessays. Personalised guidance and feedback will also be provided during weekly office hours.

The expectations for the assessed essays will be clearly established in the course guide. Additional guidance on theassessed essays will also take the form of a short workshop to run during the seminar series before the submission of bothessays. Personalised guidance and feedback will also be provided during weekly office hours.

Assessment MethodsCritical artefact analysis 1 consisting of a 15 minute group presentation (worth 20% of the overall module mark); criticalartefact analysis 2 consisting of a 1,000 word group report (worth 20% of the overall module mark); one assessed essay of3,000 words (worth 60% of the overall module mark).

Alternative reassessment pattern if a student is unable to complete the group presentation: critical artefact analysis consistingof a 1,000 word report (worth 25% of the overall module mark); an assessed essay of 3,000 words (worth 75% of the overallmodule mark).

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesPreparation of overview and analysis of core readings for critical reading exercises and structured discussion in seminars;preparation for a range of seminar activities (e.g. non-assessed presentations, role-plays, class debates); formulating,researching and writing assessed essays.

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:

Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on return of formative coursework and essays;Weekly readings with set questions to frame and guide student engagement.


PL3145 Gender, Race and War




001 Portfolio (concept analysis 500 words, blog post 1,000 words)(1,500 words)

30

002 Research Project (3,500 words) 70

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Simona GuerraMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3146 Corruption, Informality & Scandals




001 Article Review (1,500 words) 30002 Essay (3,500 words) 70

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Joshua BakerMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Evaluate and critically engage with a range of different conceptual and methodological approaches to emotions from multipledisciplines- Evaluate the conceptual, methodological, and empirical stregnths and weaknesses of studying emotions in InternationalRelations- Explain and interpret the ways in which multidisciplinary research on emotions has informed scholarship on conflict andcooperation- Critically apply key conceptual and methodological debates on emotions to a range of empirical issue areas in internationlpolitics - Continue to develop transferable skills such as effective written and oral communicate, research skills, and group work

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar, which will include a variety of learning and teaching methods.Seminars will be structured around mini-lectures that are interspersed with interactive group-activities such as researchexercises, role-play simulations, student presentations. Each of these will entail engaging with a variety of materials such asacademic texts, visual materials (e.g. images and video), and primary sources. Students will be expected to read a minimumof two allocated texts in advance, and each seminar will begin with a group discussion of the week's reading.

Assessment Methods- Article Review (1,500 words) - 30%- Essay (3,500 words) - 70%

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3147 Emotions in Conflict and Cooperation



Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWeekly guided reading of the essential texts; preperation for simulation role play exercises in groups; planning, preparationand writing for article review; planing, preparation and wiriting for the assessed essay.


PL3147 Emotions in Conflict and Cooperation




001 Online Multiple Choice Test (40 questions) 40002 Assessed Essay (3,000 words) 60

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Lauren McLarenMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Demonstrate understanding of the main theories, concepts and evidence found in the academic study of public opinion- Critically engage with the main theories, concepts and evidence found in academic study of public opinion- Effectively communicate complex ideas and critiques of these from the field of public opinion- Demonstrate independent research skills- Make use of public opinion datasets to investigate or illustrate key points

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe module will be taught by a weekly 3-hour seminar, which will include a variety of learning and teaching methods.Seminars will be structured around mini-lectures that are interspersed with interactive group-activities such as studentdiscussions and student presentations. Students prepare their allocated reading in advance. One reading in addition to theessential reading is allocated per week per student by the lecturer. Students are asked to prepare a one-page summary onthe allocated reading before attending the seminar. They are also asked to read the essential reading for each seminar inadvance every week and actively contribute to the seminar discussions. In addition, one 3-hour session will be devoted toillustrating online data analysis techniques

Assessment MethodsAssessed essay (3,000 words) (60%)Online Multiple Choice Test (40 questions) (40%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activities-Essential and supplemental reading in advance to the seminar, reporting on the latter before (via written report) and duringthe seminar (oral report); participation in group-work and plenary discussion during the seminar. Students will be providedwith online data analysis tutorial notes, to be completed weekly

LecturesSeminars 27




Supervised time in studio/workshop 3Work Based Learning




PL3148 Comparative Public Opinion





Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Rob DoverMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:- Identify and explain the wide ranging nature of strategic studies and its core components, with relevance to historical casesand contemporary international politics- Demonstrate an ability to link strategic thinking and theory to contemporary issues, problems and challenges- Explain and evaluate scholarly and policy debates around a range of identified issues which are central to contemporarystrategic studies and- Demonstrate and apply specific case-related knowledge of the key challenges facing contemporary strategists andpolicymakers- Critically evaluate the types of problems and questions that strategists will be considering into the future

Teaching and Learning MethodsA weekly three hour seminar will provide opportunities for small group and roundtable discussions; simulated role plays;presentations; and other group work.

Assessment MethodsAssessed coursework (2,000 words) (40%)Essay (3,000 words) (60%)

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3149 Strategy and International Security



Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activities-Weekly guided reading; preparation of structured summaries and evaluations of key texts for discussion in seminars;preparation for simulated role plays; preparation of non-assessed presentations in teams; planning, preparation and writing ofassessed essay(s).

Within this module, students will additionally be supported in their guided independent study with:

Structured feedback with reflective comments provided on return of formative coursework;Set reading supported with structured questions or tasks with follow on discussion and feedback in seminars;Tutor feedback during 'feedback and support time';Assessment preparation sessions

PL3149 Strategy and International Security




001 Assessed presentation 30002 Essay (3,000 words) 70

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Akali OmeniMark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:Analyse the concepts of sovereignty and the state in AfricaApply International Relations theories to conflict and state responses in the African contextAssess the tools of statecraft in the context of African country casesEvaluate the practicalities and challenges of leadership within the Africa contextEvaluate the scope of African agency in world politics

Teaching and Learning MethodsIn aiming to achieve its broad aims, the module will be split into three parts across the 10 weekly classes. Weekly seminarquestions have been specifically selected to ensure students deepen their understanding of theoretical concepts discussed inlectures, through a combination of case studies, small group tasks, individual presentations and the Socratic debate. To getthe best from the topics, students will be required to:

1. Complete assigned readings before the associated seminar2. Participate in seminars including small group tasks

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWeekly guided reading of the essential texts; preperation for seminar work including small group tasks; planning, preparationand writing for in-class assessed presentations; planing, preparation and wiriting for the essay.


LecturesSeminars 30








PL3150 International Relations, Statecraft and Political Conflict in Africa


Documents

Module Specification - le.ac.uk · 002 Online test 35 003 Essay (1,500 words) 65 Period: Semester 1 Occurence: A Coordinator: Robert Garner Mark Scheme: UG Module Mark Scheme Academic