Unit information: Thinking Politically in 2020/21

Unit name	Thinking Politically
Unit code	POLI10005
Credit points	20
Level of study	C/4
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director	Dr. Ashley Dodsworth
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies
Faculty	Faculty of Social Sciences and Law

Description including Unit Aims

This unit provides a thematic introduction to key themes in political science and international relations, organised around the delivery of key skills for all students on politics programmes.

The unit aims to:

• Help students to successfully complete the transition from School to University
• Help students to develop as independent learners
• Introduce students to central conceptual, theoretical and empirical elements of political thinking
• Familiarise students with key skills necessary to successfully complete a degree in Politics/International Relations

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:

• Identify key debates in Political Science/International Relations

• Critically engage with central research themes in Political Science/International Relations

• Demonstrate critical thinking regarding conceptual, theoretical and empirical issues in Political Science IR

• Demonstrate writing and presentation skills required for Higher Education

Teaching Information

The unit will be taught through blended learning methods, including a mix of synchronous and asynchronous teaching activities

Assessment Information

1500 word annotated bibliography (25%)

2000 word essay or speech with an accompanying explanation (75%).

Reading and References