PO2CGP-Comparative Government and Politics
Module Provider: Politics and Int Rel
Number of credits: 20 [10ECTS credits]
Terms in which taught: Autumn, Spring and Summer
Module Convenor: Dr
J
Golub
Pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2008/9
Email: j.s.golub@reading.ac.uk
Aims:
This module aims to give students a broad understanding of the political systems, institutions and processes over a range of states from all regions of the world.
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that students will be able to:
Additional outcomes:
The module also aims to encourage the development of oral communication skills and the student's effectiveness in seminars. Students will also develop IT skills through a web-based exercise.
Outline content:
The module begins with a focus on the structure and operation of constitutions, executives, legislatures, courts and bureaucracies in established states. It then proceeds to consider the forms and effects of political parties, pressure groups and social movements. Finally it considers the particular political issues associated with the development of the Third World.
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Course delivery will be by lectures and classes.
Contact hours:
| Autumn | Spring | Summer | |
| Lectures | 16 | ||
| Tutorials/seminars | 3 | 6 | |
| Practicals | |||
| Other contact (eg study visits) | 2 | ||
| Total hours | 19 | 6 | 2 |
| Number of essays or assignments | 1 | 1 | |
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
Assessment:
Coursework:
Students will write two c3,000 word essays on selected topics. The coursework mark will be the higher of (a) the average of the two essay marks OR (b) the mark for the second essay if it is higher than the first.
Relative percentage of coursework: 25%
Penalties for late submission: In accordance with University policy a penalty of a reduction of 10 marks to essays which are submitted up to one week after the original deadline, and a zero mark thereafter will be applied.
Examinations: One three-hour examination.
Requirements for a pass: 40% overall and a mark of not less than 35% in the examination.
Reassessment arrangements: Re-examination in August/September. Coursework will be carried forward if it bears a confirmed mark of 40% or more. Otherwise it must be resubmitted by 1 August.
Visiting Students: Visiting students taking this module who opt not to take the examination will be required to submit a total of 12,000 words written work in accordance with arrangements made by the module convenor.