Introduction to Comparative Politics
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| INTS1004 | School of International Studies | 1 | 20 | Autumn China |
- Code
- INTS1004
- School
- School of International Studies
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn China
Summary
What is the difference between an authoritarian and democratic regime and how is political authority organised within such states? This module seeks to address such concerns by providing a comparative overview of specific political systems and their internal characteristics. The module also offers students a basic introduction to the nature of the modern state examining key component and linkages between the modern state and its citizens; political institutions, political participation and legitimacy. It also explores basic patterns of political organisation particularly examining the concept of democracy and its contentions. The structure and content of the course are geared to an examination of the similarities and differences among modern nation-states and whether it is possible to explain those similarities and differences in comparative terms.
Please note: This module is assessed at the end of Autumn semester. First sit/ Re-sit exams are scheduled normally in the summer and can take the same form as the missing/ failed component of the assessment (exam, essay etc.) or other form, as decided by the School.
Target Students
Students from School of International Studies Available to JYA/Erasmus students.
Classes
- One 1-hour seminar each week for 11 weeks
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 11 weeks
Assessment
- 30% Coursework 1: 1,600 words Essay
- 20% presentation: presentation
- 50% Exam 1 (2-hour): one written 2-hr exam
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
When having completed this module students will have an understanding of different ways how political regimes are organised and the problems, particular histories and trajectories of different political systems in the contemporary world.Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to
1. Give definitions and to critically discuss concepts like "democracy", "federalism", "presidentialism", "centralised state", "authoritarian state" etc.
2. Display solid knowledge of different political regimes notably in Europe, America, Africa and Asia
3. Demonstrate ability to reflect, offer reasoned insight and compare systems.
Intellectual skills
By the end of the module students will be able to
1) Think critically and imaginatively about the subject matter and identify and address key problems relevant to it
2) Select, sift and synthesise information from a range of sources
3) Identify and compare key arguments in that material, be aware of differing interpretations of the subject matter and construct coherent and independent arguments of their own.
4) Analyse and synthesise information and arguments from a wide range of secondary and primary sources;
5) Plan, research and write and/or present orally a sustained piece of academic research;
6) Use the University intranet to access the library catalogue and other electronic resources
7) Demonstrate appropriate footnoting and bibliographical skills
Transferable (key) skills
By the end of the module students will be able to
1) Manage a large and disparate body of information
2) Express themselves clearly, coherently and fluently in writing essays work & oral presentations
3) Learn actively with others
4) Organise and manage study time, schedule assignments and meet deadlines
5) Respect the view of others
6) Use IT for research and presentation purposes
Professional Competencies:
• Professional Communication: Student will be expected to develop and hone effective communication skill set intended for different audiences for instance, through oral and formal presentations, blogs, webinars, videos etc.
• Co-ordinating with others: Students will develop an ability to work both independently and as a team. This will be achieved through a group project – for example a group presentation.
• Reflection: Students will be expected to maintain regular self-reflection to map individual intellectual and professional growth. This can be through self-evaluation activities.
• Digital Capabilities: The course attempts to pursue blended learning with technology and digital competence as core. For instance, the course will expect students to develop competence in using databases, software, combining different software tools for gathering or analysing and presenting data.
Conveners
- Dr David KIWUWA