KE7042 - Geopolitics of Development

In this module you will be exposed to often contrasting development debates and practices through research-led and research-tutored teaching and learning approaches. You will be encouraged to reflect critically upon key geopolitical shifts and the ways they are changing development ideas and practice.

The module will be delivered through a workshop-style of teaching. Sessions will include a mix of lectures, multi-media analysis, seminar-style activities and discussion, practical exercises, and student-led presentations. The sessions will draw significantly from active research projects in which the module teaching team is involved.

This module will be assessed formatively through presentations and in-class discussion around analyses of critical case studies; and summatively with a 3500-word essay (60%) and a 4-page policy brief (60%).

You will also be expected to engage in private and self-directed study. The MSc programme, module guide, internet site and tutor prescription will provide a clear framework for this study.

You will also have access to the e-learning portal with a dedicated internet site to support this module. The site will include electronic copies of module and lecture materials, further reading materials, important module announcements, tutor advice/guidance and further internet links.

You will receive immediate feedback on formative work during the workshops. Small group work also emphasizes peer-to-peer learning.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Develop a critical understanding of how geopolitical change and the emergence of new development actors influences policies and practices of development
2. Evaluate how different philosophical approaches to aid impact practice and the global politics of development

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Develop an ability to communicate to different stakeholders
4. Assess the relationship between theories and practices of development

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Demonstrate an awareness of how different actors embody different philosophical approaches and practices, how this changes over time, and how this resonates with your own approaches and ideas to development

This module will be assessed formatively through presentations and seminar discussions around analyses of critical case studies; and summatively with a 3500-word essay (60% of module; MLO 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) and via a 4-page (A4) (Times New Roman, font size 12) Policy briefing paper (40% of module) – MLO 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.

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The rise of emerging economies and the increasing role of non-state actors in development has significant consequences for International Development with a clear shift to a new geopolitical landscape with new powers, ideologies and agendas. This module is geared to equip students with an up-to-date understanding about the implications of the fast-changing politics of development, and the roles played by new actors. The module critically assesses the historical role played by western donors, and we cconsider new forms of aid and south-south partnerships in shaping international development agendas and progress. The module draws heavily on staff expertise and direct research experience. The module is essential study for any career in an ever changing development landscape.