University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 8

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: 4.00 pm Tue, Thu

Building on IR2005's discussion of theoretical approaches to International Relations, this module will explore the process of studying International Relations, via a close examination of a range of contemporary issues in world politics and the application of theory to these issues. The introduction to the module will address the relationship of theory and methods, frame the research process and address important questions about research data. Each of the following weeks will then focus on a contemporary issue in International Relations in order to interrogate how IR scholars engage in socio-political investigation of important and timely issues. As such, this module forms a vital bridge into the Honours level study of IR.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass IR2005

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2x 1-hour lectures (x 10 weeks), 1 x 1-hour tutorial (x 10 weeks), 1 consultation hour with Tutor (x 10 weeks) and 2 consultation hours with Year Coordinator (x 12 weeks).2 hours of exam feedback are given in week 1 of the following semester.

Scheduled learning hours: 32

Guided independent study hours: 177

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 50% Coursework, 50% written examination

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: 100% written examination

Personnel

Intended learning outcomes

• Develop an understanding of the diversity of research methods which can be employed in the study of world politics
• Develop understanding of the importance, and consequences, of theoretical and methodological choices to the study of world politics
• Gain the ability to gather and evaluate arguments and data from different sources
• Continue to develop the ability to apply theories to the study of international politics
• Further develop writing and verbal communication skills