Module manager: Prof Jason Ralph
Email: J.G.Ralph@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module explores and develops an understanding of the role of theory in contemporary International Relations. It discusses the debates in contemporary international theory and assesses the relative insights and merits of respective theories. The module starts with an examination of the role of theory in relations to practice and then discusses content and merits of Constructivist International Relations theory before examining the content and merits of its various critics including pragmatism, critical and poststructuralist theory, postcolonial, feminist and realist theory. Students will also apply theory to explain, interpret and assess current practice in contemporary international relations. The objective is to develop the skills of exegesis, as well as the ability to communicate and apply complex ideas in written form.
The main module objective is to develop an understanding of the role of theory in contemporary International Relations. This will be achieved by: (1) developing a knowledge and understanding of the debates in contemporary international theory and assessing the relative insights and merits of respective theories; (2) Applying theory to explain, interpret and assess current practice in contemporary international relations; in addition, (3) the objective is to develop the skills of exegesis, as well as the ability to communicate and apply complex ideas in written form.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Identify, explain and discuss key concepts and debates in the field of international theory
2. Use the concepts of international theory in a variety of contexts.
3. Critically reflect on the key arguments offered by International Relations scholars.
4. Understand and make connections between the theoretical perspectives of international relations theory and contemporary challenges, problems, and issues.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
1. Identify and analyse relevant information in order to develop and defend informed arguments.
2. Communicate and apply complex ideas accurately, effectively, and persuasively in writing.
3. Plan and develop an independent piece of written research.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 11 | 1 | 11 |
| Tutorial | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Private study hours | 278 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 12 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 290 | ||
Students will have the opportunity to submit a 1000-word draft of their assessed essay for feedback in week 8 of the module.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Coursework | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
There is no reading list for this module
Last updated: 16/10/2024
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