10 May 2024

Changes to modules.

Core modules

Old:

Theories and Issues in International Development 
This module explores both ‘theories’ and ‘issues’ relating to globalisation, governance and development. By examining ‘theories’ we explore the ways that knowledge is constructed - What assumptions do we make? What concepts do we employ? What explanations do we propose? What normative judgements do we make?

By examining ‘issues’, this module considers some of the prominent substantive items on the policy agenda of development institutions and agencies, as well as civil society actors. Whether and how do processes of globalisation transform, undermine or reinforce existing patterns of inequality and injustice? Is the traditional organisation of political life and the work of key development agencies still relevant in a context of globalisation? What new configurations of power have emerged in a globalised society? Are countries of the Global South able to respond and take advantage of these new configurations?

You will study the major debates on histories of colonialism, nationalism and modernity, and different approaches to postcolonial development as well as issues that impinge on global development – poverty, climate change, trade, gender relations and food security among others.

New:

Thinking Critically About Development – Knowledge, Theories and Frameworks 

This module explores the key theories which underpin the emergence, foundation and evolution of the field of International Development. No study of International Development can be comprehensive or uncontested. By examining ‘theories’ we explore the ways that knowledge is constructed – What assumptions do we make? What concepts do we employ? What explanations do we propose? What normative judgements do we make? This module will give students a sound basis for further study, including work that could explore alternative approaches and different problems.

Development in Policy and Practice – Issues, Approaches and Skills  

Globalisation has fundamentally altered the context of development and we need to understand how and in what ways this new context poses challenges for development. One of the ways in which globalisation and development are speaking to each other is through the reconstitution of governance mechanisms and processes, which are then provoking new theoretical debates, research trajectories and development agendas.

This module explores definitions, measurements, chronologies and explanations of International Development and its proposed solutions to global challenges; assessing the implications of development in a globalised world for the workings of governance at both international and national levels; and evaluating policy alternatives in respect of key problems of International Development.