PIM63-International Relations Theory

Module Provider: Graduate Institute for Politics and International Studies
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Harmonie Toros
Email: h.toros@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The module introduces students to the advanced study of International Relations through a survey of the principal theoretical approaches employed in the academic discipline of International Relations.

Aims:

• To introduce students to the principal concepts and theories associated with the academic discipline of International Relations;


• To enable students to gain an understanding of how International Relations theory can inform major debates in in contemporary world politics;


• To strengthen students' critical and analytical skills through engagement with a diverse theoretical literature; the giving of oral presentations and participation in seminar discussions; and the writing of essays and exams;


• To provide the analytic and intellectual basis for further academic research in international relations or for careers which require a sound understanding of International Relations.

Assessable learning outcomes:
Assessable Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the module students are expected to be able to:
' demonstrate knowledge of the main theories of International Relations;
' demonstrate the ability to critically examine the contemporary international order through the lens of these theories;
' demonstrate the ability to critically examine and evaluate competing theoretical arguments and to reach and defend clear conclusions about their strengths and weaknesses;

Additional outcomes:
The module aims to develop:
' critical and reflective thinking;
' an Informed and critical approach to using academic sources, including web-based information, through preparation of all coursework;
' confidence and effectiveness in oral and written communication through seminar discussions, presentations and essays.

Outline content:

A survey of the principal universal approaches to contemporary International Relations.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The course is organised on the basis of weekly two-hour seminars. Except for week 1, which is a business meeting, the seminars will consist of short lectures and student presentation on each topic, followed by discussion of the week’s readings, led by the course convener.  

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars	20
Guided independent study:	180
Total hours by term	200
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:

None 

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Two summative essays of 2,500 words including footnotes and references but excluding the bibliography which will each contribute towards 50% of the overall mark. 

Formative assessment methods:

Students will provide written drafts and/or plans for the 2,500 word essay early in the autumn term, and will receive public comments and feedback from the module convenor. The seminar discussions provide important opportunities for students to test their views and receive tutor and peer feedback. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the module convenor’s office hours to request further one-to-one feedback on their presentations, seminar contributions, and essay plans.

Penalties for late submission:

The below information applies to students on taught programmes except those on Postgraduate Flexible programmes. Penalties for late submission, and the associated procedures, which apply to Postgraduate Flexible programmes are specified in the policy 'Penalties for late submission for Postgraduate Flexible programmes', which can be found here: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmissionpgflexible.pdf
The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
50% overall module mark

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-submission of coursework.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding: Students may incur photocopying costs for seminar reading or essay research at 5p per sheet.
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 5 September 2023