Undergraduate Module Descriptor

POL2076: Rising Powers, Peace and Conflict

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

Module Aims

This module aims to familiarise you with an emerging debate in international relations about the most appropriate and effective responses to intrastate armed conflicts. You will further develop your understanding of the dominant  ‘Western’ liberal peace-building model, before going on to engage with alternatives to this model, both in relation to thematic issues, such as democratisation, economic liberalisation, and the use of force, and in relation to specific outbreaks of conflict around the world. The module also aims to provide insight into the divergent policies of ‘Rising Powers’ on questions of international peace and security, and the impact of these policies on international institutions, such as the UN.  The module will also provide an opportunity to  develop your skills in analysing conflicts and policy responses, through in-depth studies of contemporary conflicts.

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. understand contemporary debates around international responses to armed conflict;
2. critically evaluate a range of policies towards specific conflicts;
3. understand competing theoretical frameworks for assessing conflict and responses to conflict;
Discipline-Specific Skills4. critically analyse both empirical and theoretical material;
5. deploy theoretical arguments and apply them to empirical case studies;
Personal and Key Skills6. collect, analyse and evaluate relevant secondary and primary sources;
7. work independently and with peers; and
8. communicate effectively through well-structured speech and writing.