Introduction to Political Science A
Module Code: POU11011
Module Name: Introduction to Political Science A 2021-22
- ECTS Weighting: 5
- Semester/Term Taught: Semester 1
- Contact Hours: 2 Hours Lecture per week; 1 fornightly tutorial
- Module Personnel: Lecturer - Dr Liam Kneafsey
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students should be able to apply their knowledge to understand problems in the world of politics, by using fundamental concepts and theoretical tools learned in class.
Module Learning Aims
The course has two aims:
1. To equip students with a basic knowledge of the key problems and questions around which politics revolves.
2. To equip students with the fundamental conceptual, theoretical and analytical tools used in the consideration of political questions.
Module Content
There are two main sections in the course. The first considers the basic principles of politics, including discussions of power, the major ideologies, identity, interests and the state. The second examines the theory and practice of democracy in different regions of the world, the major political institutions, and how democracies emerge, function, survive or fail.
Recommended Reading List
Key Reading: Andrew Heywood, Politics 4th edition (Palgrave: 2013)
Assessment Details (TBC)
Tutorial attendance/Submission - weighted 10%
Short assignment - weighted 20%
Final essay - weighted 70%