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Introduction to Political Science A

Module Code: POU11011

Module Name: Introduction to Political Science A 2024-25

  • ECTS Weighting: 5
  • Semester/Term Taught: Semester 1
  • Contact Hours: 2 Hours Lecture per week; 1 fortnightly tutorial
  • Module Personnel: Lecturer - Dr Ross Gildea

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to apply their knowledge to understand problems in the world of politics, by using fundamental concepts and theoretical tools learned in class.


Module Learning Aims

The course has two aims:

1. To equip students with a basic knowledge of the key problems and questions around which politics revolves.
2. To equip students with the fundamental conceptual, theoretical and analytical tools used in the consideration of political questions.


Module Content

There are two main sections in the course. The first examines the theory and practice of democracy in different regions of the world, the major political institutions, and how democracies emerge, function, survive or fail. The second considers the basic principles of politics, including discussions of power, the major ideologies, identity, interests and the state.

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Recommended Reading List

TBA


Assessment Details

Three Point Submissions and Tutorial Attendance (weighted 10%)

One short written assignment (weighted 25%)

An End of term final essay assignment (weighted 65%)

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