PO3STH-Strategic Theory
Module Provider: School of Politics, Economics and International Relations
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0
Email: k.goettlich@reading.ac.uk
Type of module:
Summary module description:
This module explores the most important works of theory in Strategic Studies. The works covered range from the classical theories of Antiquity, the Middle Ages, Modern Times, through to those of the information age. Along the way, the module will analyse theory relating to nuclear strategy, terrorism, insurgency, and air power, to name just four. The module utilises these works of theory to uncover and understand key concepts in Strategic Studies. Major authors such as Machiavelli, Clausewitz, Jomini, Mahan, Corbett, Douhet, Brodie and C.S.Gray will be studied in this historical context.
Aims:
The central aim of this module is to provide students with the space to engage with the original literature of strategic studies in more depth. Students will encounter some familiar figures, such as Clausewtiz, but will also be introduced to others for the first time. This engagement will focus on the development of theory over time as well as how it had real world applications. This module allows students to understand how theory develops and is understood rather than focus on its implementation.
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is intended that the student will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the role of theory in Strategic Studies
- Critically examine works of theory
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the main works of theory for the different forms of war
- Through an analysis of strategic theory understand the key concepts and challenges in Strategic Studies
Additional outcomes:
The module aims to develop critical and reflective thinking, effective and independent use of a variety of sources, coherent and rigorous written and oral argumentation, and the ability to work with and learn from others.
Outline content:
This module is concerned with the theory and practice of strategy. In order to understand the varied nature of strategic theory and the complexities of strategic practice the module will address at least one major strategic theory, ancient or modern, in each of its 10 weeks.
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
One 1-hour lecture and one 2-hour seminar each week in the autumn term.
| Autumn | Spring | Summer | |
| Lectures | 10 | ||
| Seminars | 20 | ||
| Guided independent study: | 170 | ||
| Total hours by term | 200 | 0 | 0 |
| Total hours for module | 200 |
| Method | Percentage |
| Written exam | 40 |
| Written assignment including essay | 40 |
| Report | 20 |
Summative assessment- Examinations:
One two-hour examination.
Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
Students will write one essay of 4000 words (including footnotes but excluding bibliography) which will account for 40% of the final mark.
Additionally, students will deliver an assigned presentation and an associated report (20%).
Visiting students will follow the same assessments but only those enrolled for the summer term will sit the examination. Those visiting students who are here for Autumn only but wish to gain full credits will also write a 4000 word essay in place of the examination. Visiting students who are only studying for half credits will submit one essay of 4000 words in total.
Formative assessment methods:
They will also give oral seminar presentation, with prepared handouts and PowerPoints.
Penalties for late submission:
The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:
The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.
Assessment requirements for a pass:
40% overall.
Reassessment arrangements:
Candidates who fail their final year normally have the right to be re-examined on one further occasion at the next opportunity. These candidates will not normally be eligible for Honours (ie., only a Pass classification would be attainable). Students who are eligible for re-assessment have the right to re-assessment in all elements even if they have previously passed one of those elements. It is expected, however, that the majority of students would probably elect not to repeat an element in which they had already passed, in which case the confirmed marks would be carried forward.
Coursework: Failed or missing coursework should be re-submitted by 1st August, emailed directly to politics@reading.ac.uk, AND submitted on Blackboard.
Examination: Re-examination takes place in August/September of the same year.
Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books: There is no set text for this module. During the first session appropriate sources from the library will be highlighted for students.
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding: There may be optional costs associated with photocopying or printing sources listed on the reading list relating to this module. Please note that the Library charges approximately 5p per photocopy.
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:
Last updated: 25 November 2019
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MODULE DESCRIPTION DOES NOT FORM ANY PART OF A STUDENT'S CONTRACT.