PO219-15 Theories of International Relations
Introductory description
Although a ‘common sense’ view of world politics is often presented as fact in non-academic contexts, there is little agreement about what International Relations is, and how we should think about the discipline. This module helps students critically examine conventional wisdom. The module emphasises that ‘the truth’ about International Relations is disputed and reflects on how we can use theory to study global politics.
Module aims
The module will:
- Introduce, explore and compare the key theoretical approaches in International Relations;
- Use examples to examine how different schools of thought help us understand past and current global affairs;
- Encourage students to develop critical analytical and evaluative skills.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
TBC
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Describe the key assumptions which distinguish contemporary theories of international relations from each other
- Analyze the purpose, coherence, and contradictions of contemporary theories of international relations an evaluate their contribution
- Deploy theories of international relations to study aspects of global politics
Indicative reading list
Term 1: https://rl.talis.com/3/warwick/lists/B826003B-6698-FCC0-34C9-587429382E23.html
Term 2: https://rl.talis.com/3/warwick/lists/06B1D7CB-9708-74A9-C840-0F491E30783A.html
View reading list on Talis Aspire
Interdisciplinary
History, Sociology, Philosophy, Gender Studies
International
Global Affairs
Subject specific skills
Communication skills
- Lateral thinking skills
- Skills in the distillation and application of complex information and ideas
- Critical thinking
- Analytical skills
- Independent research skills
- Problem solving
- Skills in academic practice
- Awareness of, and sensitivity to, diversity
Transferable skills
The module provides students with opportunities to acquire or develop the following key skills:
- Communication skills
- Lateral thinking skills
- Skills in the distillation and application of complex information and ideas
- Critical thinking
- Analytical skills
- Independent research skills
- Problem solving
- Time management
- Information Technology
- Skills in academic practice
- Awareness of, and sensitivity to, diversity
- Decision making
- Educational self-awareness skills
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 9 sessions of 1 hour (6%) |
| Seminars | 9 sessions of 1 hour (6%) |
| Private study | 132 hours (88%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
TBC
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A1
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3000 Word Essay | 100% | Yes (extension) | |
|
2,500 word essay |
|||
Feedback on assessment
Exams and essays are marked according to criteria set out in the Undergraduate Handbook.
Courses
This module is Optional for:
- Year 2 of UPOA-M100 Undergraduate Politics