Unit name | Social Policy and Development |
---|---|
Unit code | SPOL30050 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | H/6 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
Unit director | Dr. Gangoli |
Open unit status | Open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School for Policy Studies |
Faculty | Faculty of Social Sciences and Law |
The central aim of this unit is to analyse the relationship between social policies and the concept of development, and to demonstrate that comparative studies involve international systems. Starting with an analysis of theories of 'development', we will critique explanations propounded for uneven development between and within societies, and look at the role of gender, politics and power in debates around development . Policies pursued by "developing" countries and civil society action against globalisation and development inform future policy options and directions, and the unit will also explore and analyse social responses to policies on development. Comparisons here will include , India and China.
The unit aims to:
Students will be expected to be able to critique the theoretical positions on development, including an understanding of the importance of gender dynamics in the development paradigm and to understand the main arguments surrounding international definitions of poverty. Further, students should be familiar with the role of international agencies/organisations in the global economy and their effects in relation to the alleviation of poverty and distribution of resources. Comparisons between countries, on the issues of policies and civil society responses should ‘concretise’ understanding of the constraints and possibilities of different development paths followed.
Students will be expected to be able to critique the theoretical positions on development, including an understanding of the importance of gender dynamics in the development paradigm and to understand the main arguments surrounding international definitions of poverty.
Further, students should be familiar with the role of international agencies/organisations in the global economy and their effects in relation to the alleviation of poverty and distribution of resources. Comparisons between countries, on the issues of policies and civil society responses should ‘concretise’ understanding of the constraints and possibilities of different development paths followed.
Lectures and seminars.
Assessment will be against the programme criteria defined for the appropriate level.
Formative assessment: One 2000- 2500 word essay
Summative assessment : Level H - 3 hour unseen exam