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.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars	19		1
Guided independent study	140		40
Total hours by term	159.00		41.00
Total hours for module	200.00

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.

Formative assessment methods:
Students giving presentations will receive feedback from the module convenor and via seminar discussion. The seminar discussions provide important opportunities for students to test their views and receive tutor and peer feedback. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the module convenor’s office hours to request further one-to-one feedback on their presentations, seminar contributions, and essay plans.

Students enrolled in the International Relations Programme will write a formative essay (1,500 words) early in the first term, for which they receive a mark and written comments but which does not contribute towards the overall grade.

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