University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: 10.00 am - 12.00 noon Tue, or 10.00 am - 12.00 noon Wed

The module interrogates the nature of violence and the representational dilemmas this creates for the researcher and for conflict analysis more generally. It explores competing and cross-disciplinary theoretical and methodological approaches to study violent conflict, and then applies these to specific case studies. Problems associated with researching conflict and violence will also be covered, including ethical considerations, challenges of field research, and problems of cross-cultural communication. Students will produce an original case study focused on a conflict site or issue of their choice. The module provides instruction on research and writing skills, and trains students to construct theoretical and methodological research frameworks that will augment their preparation for the IR Honours Dissertation.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass IR2006

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 2-hour seminar (2 x 2-hour seminar in weeks 2, 4, 7, and 10), and occasional required 1-hour case study workshops (weeks 4, 6, 8, and 10).

Scheduled learning hours: 30

Guided independent study hours: 270

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 3-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr J R McMullin
Module teaching staff: Dr J McMullin
Module coordinator email jrm21@st-andrews.ac.uk