2017/18 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
MODL1100 Politics, Culture and Society
20 creditsClass Size: 120
Module manager: Dr Gregorio Alonso
Email: G.Alonso@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2017/18
This module is approved as a discovery module
Module summary
What are the key debates that shape the practice of politics at international level? How can theory helps us better understand and analyse the practice of politics in the world today? How can awareness of differing cultural and intercultural perspectives help us better understand contemporary international politics? This module will introduce these themes and explore them in relation to a range of issues drawn from around the world. Because they are shaped by the current research interests of the staff teaching the module, the precise topics covered will vary from year to year. They might typically include: Colonialism and Post-ColonialismNationalism and Self-DeterminationPolitical Regimes: Democracy vs. AutocracyConflict and RevolutionsGender Globalisation and International SocietyObjectives
- Introduce students to the core theoretical and conceptual ideas underpinning the practice of contemporary politics: colonialism, nationalism, democracy, revolution, gender and globalisation- Analyse critical primary and secondary texts in these areas.
- Have a strong comparative dimension, applying these political theories in case-studies drawn from a broad international context.
- Provide a solid foundation for modules in politics/culture/society in Levels 2 and 3.
- Introduce independent research skills (semester 2 assessment) and thereby provide a foundation for the research-based learning pursued throughout the programme.
- Familiarity with key skills for undergraduate study, such as: (i) presentation (ii) library skills (iii) referencing (iii) independent study and analysis (iv) familiarity with academic integrity issues.
Learning outcomes
Fundamentals of selected ideas and concepts that underpin the practice of politics in the world today.
Characteristics of the political debates, struggles and tensions that shape the practice of politics in different international settings.
Knowledge of how to apply theory to current political and cultural developments at international level.
Skills outcomes
Analytical thinking, ability to construct coherent arguments, communication and presentation skills, research skills, self-discipline and punctuality.
Syllabus
Typical Module Programme (each unit will consist of two lectures and one seminar)
Semester 1
Week 1: What is political theory and why is it important?
Weeks 2-4: Colonialism & Post-Colonialism
Weeks 5-6, 8: Nationalism and Self-Determination
Weeks 9-11: Political Regimes: Democracy vs. Autocracy
Semester 2
Weeks 14-16: Capitalism and Crisis
Weeks 17-19: Gender
Weeks 20-22: Globalisation and International Society
Week 23: Concluding lecture
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Class tests, exams and assessment | 1 | 2.00 | 2.00 |
| Lecture | 14 | 1.00 | 14.00 |
| Seminar | 6 | 1.00 | 6.00 |
| Private study hours | 178.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 22.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200.00 | ||
Private study
200 hours, including the contact hours and also hours spent on student preparation for essays, seminars, exams and lectures.Opportunities for Formative Feedback
- written / oral assignments- designated feedback sessions
- student questionnaires
- access to module tutors in class and in office hours
Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Essay | 2000 words | 40.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 40.00 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Exams
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 1 hr 00 mins | 30.00 |
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 1 hr 00 mins | 30.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 60.00 | |
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 websiteLast updated: 02/03/2018 17:22:55
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