Undergraduate Module Descriptor

POC2048: Research Methods in International Relations

This module descriptor refers to the 2018/9 academic year.

Please note that this module is only delivered on the Penryn Campus.

Module Aims

This module will:

  1. Introduce you to traditional and critical methodologies for the study of International Relations.
  2. Encourage you to develop, apply, reflect upon the use of these methods
  3. Train you in the skills to design, justify and conduct independent research in International Relations

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. Describe, contrast and analyse competing theoretical and methodological perspectives on research in IR.
2. Develop and provide a rationale for a given research question, based on a critical review of scholarship.
3. Apply methodological approaches to the analysis of empirical and normative issues in international relations, and display a competent awareness of the underlying philosophical assumptions, the limitations, and the implications of each approach.
4. Use evidence to explain and defend the adoption of a particular methodological approach to the analysis of given research question.
Discipline-Specific Skills5. Construct a logical academic argument supported by evidence.
6. Apply abstract theoretical approaches to new contexts in order to make sense of real world problems.
7. Identify and apply a conceptual framework from some academic sources in order to answer a question, and then explain the choice of this framework.
Personal and Key Skills8. Formulate and present information and critical analysis, in both written and oral forms, in a coherent manner.
9. Understand assessment criteria, engage in critical yet constructive peer-evaluation and produce feedback and suggestions for improvement.
10. Work effectively with peers in order to present ideas and facilitate discussions