University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: Thurs 10-12

This module combines IR Theory and Central Asian studies, exploiting the potential synergies of IR and Area Studies for students' learning. It examines how norms, rules and institutions regulating international relations at the global level, such as sovereignty, diplomacy and international law are understood, applied and contested in Central Asia, thus addressing issues of norm localisation and adaptation. There are three intended goals of this module. The first aim is to show how norms and practices that we assume to be universal find specific interpretations in Central Asia. The second aim is to understand how 'order' is achieved in Central Asia, avoiding regional conflict. The third aim is to portray the Central Asian states as performers of international relations, and not just as 'consumers'. This is the only module that sees international relations from the perspective of the Central Asian states, thus considering them as full protagonists in world politics.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2-hour seminar and 2 office hours.

Assessment pattern

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


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

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr F Costa Buranelli
Module teaching staff: Dr F Costa Buranelli
Module coordinator email fcb7@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Develop their understanding of how norms, rules and institutions change in and adapt to regional contexts, with a specific focus on Central Asia
• Understand and critically analyse how international relations in Central Asia are performed, conducted and may differ from Western models, therefore familiarizing with international comparisons
• Understand and critically analyse how international relations in Central Asia are performed, conducted and may differ from Western models, therefore familiarizing with international comparisons
• Contribute to and discuss the existing literature by writing essays, both academic and reflexive, to reach a level of scholarly preparation appropriate for postgraduate studies and, eventually, research degrees
• Develop their oral and presentational skills in a way appropriate for postgraduate studies