Undergraduate Module Descriptor

POL1006: State and Society

This module descriptor refers to the 2016/7 academic year.

Module Aims

In this module we aim to:
• introduce you to the key concepts in the study of comparative politics;
• provide you with some of the analytical tools necessary to evaluate them;
• and show you how these concepts and theories relate to empirical cases around the world.

We also aim to provide a supportive learning environment that fosters you academic and personal development.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here – you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. Demonstrate understanding of key concepts in the study of comparative politics
2. Demonstrate understanding of the central methodology of comparative politics – the logic of comparison
3. Apply concepts to cases using the comparative method
Discipline-Specific Skills4. Learn how to use precisely defined concepts to compare different cases that share specific criteria;
5. Understand the path from concept to measurement of empirical phenomena;
Personal and Key Skills6. Learn how to engage with social science databases
7. Develop abstract thinking that focuses on shared characteristics of different cases
8. Develop precise judgment over empirical differences
9. work independently, within a limited time frame, and without access to external sources, to complete a specified task