University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: This module will be offered as an intensive seminar, and the School of IR utilises a ballot system along with module caps to ensure appropriate class sizes.

Planned timetable: To be confirmed

This highly theoretical and reading intensive seminar-style module will examine the psychological nature of basic human motivations, exploring their applications within the field of Foreign Policy Analysis (FPA). Employing a collaborative learning approach, the module aims to have students and the module instructor together develop new multi-disciplinary perspectives on motivations in foreign policy. Together we will examine classic psychological approaches to human motivation, the study of motivation in FPA theories, and cutting edge advances in psychology that explore motives such as immortality, belonging, self-esteem, control, and a sense of meaning. Students will develop an innovative application of motivation theory to foreign policy, which they will share with other students. Previous experience with social or cognitive psychology or related fields, as well as reading knowledge of statistics, will be beneficial but not essential.

Relationship to other modules

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

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 hour seminars (11 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 33

Guided independent study hours: 254

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

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

Re-assessment: Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr R K Beasley
Module teaching staff: Dr Ryan Beasley
Module coordinator email rb68@st-andrews.ac.uk