The first essay will require you to apply conceptual and theoretical insight to historical or contemporary material specific to the course. [Learning Outcomes 1,3]

The second essay will require you to show your overall appreciation of the concerns of the module. It will enable you to demonstrate your comprehensive understanding of the module and your flexibility in applying your knowledge to specific concerns. [Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4]

The virtual seminar presentation (1000 words) will require you to focus precisely and concisely on a narrow topic, analyse it and communicate your conclusions to the group [Learning Outcomes 2,3]

A pass (Grade Point 7-9) is awarded only when all of the assessment is complete and the work meets the learning objectives of the module.

A merit performance (Grade Point 10-12) is indicated by an exemplary performance in meeting the learning objectives of the module.

A distinction performance (Grade Point 13) will be indicated by excellence in meeting the learning objectives of the module.

A computer for accessing Blackboard, websites and electronic journals.
Course texts and course leaving pack

The main focus will be on self instruction, within a tightly structured framework and relying largely (but not exclusively) on materials supplied. Week by week you will work through self-instructional course material (delivered via blackboard), which provides the framework and focus for reading key texts and papers and undertaking the specific tasks set. This work will be undertaken on an individual basis, but at various points you will be expected to interact and share material with other students in your learning group and your tutor. (24 hours). The module will run over 16 weeks including 4 weeks to complete assessments.

Optional introductory workshops at Staffordshire will be provided for those students able to travel here at the start of each semester. These will introduce you to the Blackboard learning environment and the main theories of the module for that semester. Similar material will be made available online to those unable to attend the workshops

P Viotti & M Kaupi - International Relations Theory (2nd Ed.) Macmillan 1995
W Keylor - Twentieth Century World - An Intellectual History (4th Ed.) OOP, 2000
J. Dougherty & R. Pfaltzgraff, Contending Theories of International Relations (most recent edition)

The First World War and the origins of IR as a discipline. The League of Nations and idealism in the study and practice of international relations. The idealist-realist debate. E.H. Carr and the early political realists.

Impact of the Second World War. Realism in the ascendency. The impact of Morgenthau and others. IR as 'an American social science'. The behavioural revolution and IR's second great debate.

The break up of Bretton Woods, OPEC and the MNC. The development of the pluralist perspective. Interdependence and transnational relations. Demands for a new international economic order anddependency theory.

An inter-paridigm debate in the 19805. Impact of the end of the cold war.