PL9199: Introduction to Government
| School | Politics and International Relations |
| Department Code | LAWPL |
| Module Code | PL9199 |
| External Subject Code | 100491 |
| Number of Credits | 20 |
| Level | L4 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | Dr Mark Donovan |
| Semester | Spring Semester |
| Academic Year | 2014/5 |
Outline Description of Module
The main aim of this module is to introduce first year students to the principal concepts used in the study of comparative government with a particular focus on the key institutions and practices of contemporary European parliamentary and democratic states.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
Knowledge and Understanding:
The basic forms of government and especially of the European parliamentary form; how government structures relate to party politics; the specialised vocabulary of political discourse as expressed by political scientists and practitioners; the application of foundational research and information skills.
Intellectual Skills:
The ability to:develop a persuasive argument, that is reasoned and evidence-based; gather, organize and deploy evidence and information from a variety of sources; synthesize relevant information and to exercise critical judgement in evaluating that information; and to manage her/his learning in a self-critical manner.
How the module will be delivered
The module is delivered through a combination of small group teaching and lectures. In line with the learning objectives, these experiences will provide a platform of knowledge of the basic institutions and practices found in comparative government, particularly democratic, parliamentary government, as well as the concepts used to study them enabling students to grow confident in their ability to undertake independent learning in a core area of the Politics discipline.
Skills that will be practised and developed
To gather and process and synthesise information from written and aural sources; to structure and communicate ideas effectively via written work; to develop a persuasive argument rooted in logical reasoning and evidence which demonstrates academic integrity; to present plausible arguments verbally through participation in seminars; and develop the interpersonal skills necessary to engage in intelligent, respectful debate.
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Assessment | 50 | Essay (Spring Semester) | N/A |
| Exam - Spring Semester | 50 | Introduction To Government | 1.5 |
Syllabus content
The course is based around a series of lectures and seminars, covering such topics as:
The study of comparative government and politics
The state and sovereignty
Democratic regimes and non-democratic regimes
Constitutions and constitutionalism
Federalism and multi-level governance
Political culture
Political communication
Public policy
Party government
Electoral regulation and Electoral behaviour
Political parties and party familiesCoalitions
Party systemsParliament
Government
Public Administration
Essential Reading and Resource List
Hague, R. & M. Harrop (2010), Comparative Government and Politics: An Introduction, 8th edition.
Gallagher, M., M. Laver, & P. Mair (2011), Representative Government in Modern Europe, 5th ed.
D. Caramani (ed.) (2011), Comparative Politics, 2nd edition
B. Goodwin (2007), Using Political Ideas, 5th edition.
A. Heywood (2013), Politics, 4th edition.
K. Newton and J. Van Deth (2010), Foundations of Comparative Politics, 2nd edition