University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: Fri 1pm

Understanding how and why conflict emerges, and how it may be addressed are crucial issues in the international system. The module not only addresses conventional themes in peace and conflict studies but also examines conflict from decolonial, feminist and critical theoretical lens. It examines basic conceptual models which help us understand conflicts, and of the various approaches which have been applied to manage or resolve them. Students will also acquire a grassroots or local understanding of the skills require to intervene, manage and resolve international and internal conflicts. Conflict between states and the emergence of conflict derived from political, social, structural, historical, and ethnic roots have driven the development of apparatus to address conflict, ranging from diplomatic exchanges, the use of military force, peacekeeping, negotiation, mediation and conflict resolution. This module is divided into two main areas, the first discusses various approaches used to analyze conflict, from the point of view of states, individuals and groups, regional and international organizations, investigating dominant issues of conflict, including state-interests, territory, sovereignty, development, resources, identity, culture, ethnicity, and representation. The second part of the module then examines the various approaches that have emerged for addressing conflict. Topical cases studies will provide an empirical focus. This module will equip students with an understanding of the various basic conceptual models which help us understand the diverse root causes of conflicts, and of the various approaches which have been applied to manage or resolve various types of conflict. It will also provide them with an understanding of the way that different actors (i.e. NGOs, mediators, institutional peacekeeping or peacebuilding actors) operate at different levels of analysis.

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 1-hour lecture (x 10 weeks), 1 x 1-hour tutorial (x 10 weeks), 2 consultation hours with Coordinator (x 12 weeks). 2 hours examination feedback in week 1 of following semester.

Scheduled learning hours: 46

Guided independent study hours: 254

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 1 x 2000 word Essay = 20%, a class participation and a PowerPoint presentation = 20%, 2 x blogs of 500 words = 10%, an unseen exam = 50%

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

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr M M B Shwaikh

Intended learning outcomes

• examine conflicts from decolonial, feminist & critical theory lens
• critically explore approached to maanging conflcits
• equip students with an understanding of the various basic conceptual modules which helps in understanding conflicts
• provide students with an understanding of the way that different actors operate within conflict zones
• acquire an understanding of the skills required to intervene, manage and resolve international internal conflicts