PIM63-International Relations Theory
Module Provider: Graduate Institute for Politics and Internat Studs
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2017/8
Module Convenor: Dr Adam Humphreys
Email: a.r.humphreys@reading.ac.uk
Summary module description:
The module introduces students to the advanced study of international relations through a survey of the principal theoretical approaches employed in the academic discipline of International Relations.
Aims:
- To introduce students to the principal concepts and theories associated with the academic discipline of international relations;
- To enable students to gain an understanding of how international relations theory can inform major debates in in contemporary world politics;
- To strengthen students' critical and analytical skills through engagement with a diverse theoretical literature; the giving of oral presentations and participation in seminar discussions; and the writing of essays and exams;
- To provide the analytic and intellectual basis for further academic research in international relations or for careers which require a sound understanding of international relations.
Assessable learning outcomes:
Assessable Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the module students are expected to be able to:
• demonstrate knowledge of the main theories of International Relations;
• demonstrate the ability to critically examine the contemporary international order through the lens of these theories;
• demonstrate the ability to critically examine and evaluate competing theoretical arguments and to reach and defend clear conclusions about their strengths and weaknesses;
Additional outcomes:
The module aims to develop:
• critical and reflective thinking;
• an Informed and critical approach to using academic sources, including web-based information, through preparation of all coursework;
• confidence and effectiveness in oral and written communication through seminar discussions, presentations and essays.
Outline content:
(subject to change):
1.Business meeting and introductory discussion
2.Anarchy and hierarchy
3.Realism and neorealism
4.Classical liberalism and modern liberalisms
5.Constructivism
6.International society and international law
7.Marxism and critical theory
8.Feminism and Post-Structuralism
9.Non-Western IR theories
10.Just war theory
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The course is organized on the basis of weekly two-hour seminars. There are no lectures. The seminars will consist of student presentations followed by discussion of the week’s topic led by the module convenor.
Summative Assessment Methods:
Method |
Percentage |
Written exam |
50 |
Written assignment including essay |
50 |
Other information on summative assessment:
1 summative essay of 3,000 words including footnotes and references but excluding the bibliography which will contribute towards 50% of the overall mark.
Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx
Length of examination:
2 Hours
Requirements for a pass:
50% overall module mark
Reassessment arrangements:
Re-sit examinations take place in September or in April/May of the following year.
Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding: Students may incur photocopying costs for seminar reading or essay research at 5p per sheet.
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:
Last updated: 31 March 2017