2008/09 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

PIED1100 British Politics

20 creditsClass Size: 340

Module manager: Dr Tim Heppell
Email: t.heppell@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2008/09

This module is approved as an Elective

Module summary

Is 'New Labour' either new or Labour?Is it Britain's destiny to be always the 'awkward partner' of Europe?Did Mrs Thatcher save Britain from terminal decline?How democratic is Britain? The module aims to provide an introduction to British politics since 1945, focussing on key debates about the changing character and conduct of politics; the social and economic context of politics; political ideas and party alignments; Britain's international position and constitutional developments. Topics covered include: the post war consensus; the debate about British 'decline'; Thatcherism; Blairism and New Labour; Britain and the world in the 20th century; Britain and the EU; social context of British politics; mass media and politics; democracy in Britain; constitutional reform and the future of the UK.It provides a foundation for further study of British politics at levels 2 and 3, where key themes can be studied in depth in specialist modules.The module is taught by weekly lectures and seminars in semester 2. Those with little or no knowledge of British politics are encouraged to take this opportunity to bone up. A-level students will find an opportunity to extend the breadth and depth of their knowledge. For further information see the School of Politics and International Studies website. If you cannot find the answer to your question then email Dr Tim Heppell

Objectives

On completion of the module, students should be able to make independent assessments of key issues and debates in the study of British government and politics, appraise competing theories, and demonstrate a critical understanding of the variety of source material relating to the subjects studied.

Syllabus

The module aims to provide an up-to-date introduction to politics and the system of government in Britain, while also placing contemporary developments in the context of the changing political system since 1945. Subjects covered include: democratic and constitutional debates; party politics; election studies; the mass media and politics; political leadership; central and local government; group politics; Britain and Europe.

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	10	1.00	10.00
Seminar	10	1.00	10.00
Private study hours			180.00
Total Contact hours			20.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			200.00

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

One 1,200 word non-assessed essay handed in week eight

Methods of assessment

Exams

Exam type	Exam duration	% of formal assessment
Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc)	3 hr 00 mins	100.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)		100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 03/04/2009

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