2020/21 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

PIED5501M The Politics of the Israel-Palestine Conflict

30 Credits Class Size: 32

Module manager: Dr Gordon Clubb
Email: G.Clubb@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 Apr to 31 Aug View Timetable

Year running 2020/21

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module develops a comprehensive understanding of the contemporary issues that shape the Israel-Palestine conflict through a detailed examination of the elements of a two-state solution and the interests and policies of crucial local, regional, and international actors.This module develops a comprehensive understanding of the contemporary issues that shape the Israel-Palestine conflict through a detailed examination of the elements of a two-state solution. Themes will be examined from the perspectives of human / state rights, conflict resolution and security.

Objectives

(1) Develop an understanding of key concepts and debates in the application of theories of conflict resolution to international conflict.
(2) Apply theoretical material in the analysis of contemporary security challenges of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
(3) Provide an advanced understanding of the interests and policies of the conflict’s central local, regional, and international participants.
(4) Develop skills of conceptual analysis, critical thought and creative reflection.
(5) Develop skills of critical review of texts in international diplomacy.

Learning outcomes

At the end of the module students should be able to:
1) Demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the context and history of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
2) Provide an in-depth analysis of the negotiating positions and strategies of engagement of the key domestic and international actors.
3) Critically engage with the key theoretical ideas and strategies of conflict resolution.

Syllabus

The module engages in the in-depth analysis of the context and content of attempts to find a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. The critical examination of the interests and policies of crucial local, regional, and international actors will set the state for the examination of the essential elements of a two state solution such as national self-determination, the return of refugees, Jerusalem, borders, settlements and natural resources from a conflict resolution and security perspective.

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Lectures 11 1 11
Seminar 11 1 11
Private study hours 278
Total Contact hours 22
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 300

Private study

Students are expected to prepare for lectures as well as seminars. They will base their reading on provided key readings and a reading list. Assignments for seminars involve reading and in-class group work, including debates, presentations, discussions and negotiations.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

In week 5 of the course students have to submit a 2,000 word introduction to their essay, which allows for an early assessment of abilities and weaknesses. Students are supported and receive detailed feedback on these essays to ensure that the learning outcomes are achieved.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Essay 1 x 3,000 End of Term essay 80
Presentation Seminar Presentation 20
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading List

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 10/08/2020

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team