Module manager: Dr Abdul Bashid Shaikh
Email: A.B.Shaikh@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
This module is approved as a discovery module
This module provides a survey of the historical development of what is often referred to as the Arab-Israeli conflict. It examines the history behind the establishment of the state of Israel and occupation of Palestine, from the British Mandate to today. It explores the rise of nationalisms, the politics of the region, and the legality, politics, economics and consequences of the occupation of Palestine. You will have the opportunity to consider a variety of primary and secondary source material including academic sources, legal and political documents and expert reports from international and non-governmental organisations. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
You will have the opportunity to explore the historical, political, and legal dynamics of the Arab-Israeli conflict and Israel/Palestine. By referencing arguments from academic sources you will be able to compare and contrast different histories, positionalities, and arguments. In these discussions, you will learn about the intricacies of global and domestic politics along with international and domestic law in the context of Israel/Palestine. The lectures and seminars will provide opportunities to engage in small group discussions and group work. You will have a range of activities and interactions to facilitate learning, where emphasis will be placed on critical thinking.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Identify and discuss key historic and contemporary aspects of the Arab-Israeli conflict and the occupation of Palestine
2. Critically examine the development and rise of nationalisms and their politics, including Zionism, Palestinian nationalism, and Arab nationalism.
3. Analyse the legal, political, economic, and social dynamics and consequences of the Israeli occupation of Palestine.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
4. Communicate ideas and information clearly and effectively complying with the principles of academic integrity.
5. Think critically and weigh up different arguments, perspectives, and sources to develop a well-structured argument that is backed by evidence.
6. Conduct independent research applying concepts and theories to analyse empirical data.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 20 | 1 | 20 |
| Seminar | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Private study hours | 170 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 30 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Feedback Arrangements. Written feedback on essays via Turnitin will be provided. In respect of the exam, each student shall have an opportunity to receive a copy of the exam feedback proforma, detailing the particulars in respect of individual student performance.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Essay | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 50 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Online Time-Limited assessment | 2.0 Hrs 0 Mins | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 50 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 24/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team