Module overview
This module examines some of the concrete political challenges of our time through the use of key texts chosen by staff members who work in the relevant fields. We will spend two weeks on each text, with two lectures giving a precis of the main arguments and raising some key points for critical discussion.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Critically examine contemporary political challenges
- Engage in critical discussion of theoretical and empirical political literature
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Summarise and critically examine key texts on contemporary political issues
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Think and write independently on political topics
Syllabus
The content of the module will be shaped by current political events and staff availability in any given year. Please contact the module convenor for the topic of the module and list of readings before registering.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
This module will be taught using the following methods:
- Two weekly lectures of 1 hour each
- `Structured in class discussion of the readings between students
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Online discussion forums | 24 |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Independent Study | 102 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Assessment 1: 1000-word essay. (40%)
Assessment 2: 1500-word review essay (60%)
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Research essay | 40% |
| Research essay | 60% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Research essay | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Research essay | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External