PL2001 - Contested Approaches in Political Science

[Offered in odd-numbered years]

Credit points:	03
Year:	2005
Student Contribution Band:	Band 1
Administered by:

This subject explores competing theoretical approaches and methodologies in political science. It examines the key approaches (normative, institutional, behavioural, rational choice, feminist and discourse) and methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, comparative and structure-agency) used in the study of politics. It will focus on evaluating contested approaches and methods and highlighting the value of using those approaches and methods to understand politics in the real world. The subject is designed for not only political science students, but also for students who wish to develop a capacity for understanding politics in their professional and daily lives.

Learning Outcomes

• to conceptualise about politics and to enhance analytic skills;
• to evaluate critically competing approaches and methods in the study of politics;
• to understand key theoretical and methodological aspects of the political science discipline.

Graduate Qualities

• The ability to think critically, to analyse and evaluate claims, evidence and arguments;
• The ability to adapt knowledge to new situations;
• The ability to define and to solve problems in at least one discipline area;
• The ability to speak and write logically, clearly and creatively;
• A coherent and disciplined body of skills, knowledge, values and professional ethics in at least one discipline area;
• The ability to learn independently and in a self-directed manner;
• A commitment to lifelong learning and intellectual development.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:

PL1303 and PL3001

Availabilities
, , Study Period 1
Census Date 31-Mar-2005
Coordinator:	hishl
Lecturers:	hishl, Assoc. Professor Surin Maisrikrod.
Contact hours:	26 hours 10 hours
Assessment:	(40%); (10%); (50%).
, , Study Period 1
Census Date 31-Mar-2005
Coordinator:	hishl
Lecturers:	hishl, Assoc. Professor Surin Maisrikrod.
Contact hours:	26 hours 10 hours
Assessment:	(40%); (10%); (50%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.