Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2009 - 2010
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| Module Aims | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The aim of this module is to break students’ dependence on passive modes of learning, particularly ‘learning by rote.’ In addition to fostering an independent learning mindset at an early stage in the programme, this module will introduce students to critical analysis, argument formulation, and research techniques relevant to the BA in International Relations. It will also provide a general introduction to studying at university and assist students with essay writing and presentation skills. The overall aim is to develop analytical techniques at the beginning of the programme. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning Outcomes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
Independently research IR topics Distinguish between different types of sources Critically analyse primary and secondary source material Evaluate the analytical strength of others’ arguments Integrate theory and empirical evidence to construct their own arguments Structure essays Write in an academic manner Work productively in a group Make oral presentations Understand and interpret basic statistics | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Assume that a 10 credit module load represents approximately 150 hours' work, which includes all teaching, in-course assignments, laboratory work or other specialised training and an estimated private learning time associated with the module. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Indicative Syllabus | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Sources in IR Essay Writing
Group Work and Presentations
Library Skills
Statistics
Theories, Opinions & Facts
International Relations Theories
Using theory in your work
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| Indicative Reading List | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Core
Cottrell, Stella, 2003, Study Skills Handbook, Palgrave MacMillan.
Lecture notes, links to journal articles and websites are posted on the module’s Moodle page (DCU’s online learning environment).
Supplementary
Cottrell, Stella, 2005, Critical thinking skills: developing effective analysis and argument
Redman, Peter, 2001, Good essay writing: A social sciences guide, Sage:
Greetham, Bryan, 2001, 2008, How to write better essays, Palgrave.
Kane, Thomas S., 2000, The
McCarthy, Patsy & Hatcher, Caroline, 2002, Presentation skills: the essential guide for students, Sage.
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| Programme or List of Programmes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| IR | BA in International Relations | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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