IR5009 - UK Politics Beyond Westminster

I will learn by attending lectures where I will be presented with an introduction to the academic debates in relation to the key concepts and theories explored in this module pertaining to the UK political system. In seminars I will consolidate my knowledge and understanding through student-led discussion which will also develop my ability to think critically and formulate a clear argument based on appropriate evidence. I will work as part of a team to research and develop a response to a policy challenge in a particular area, and work with my peers seminars to develop a presentation to communicate our ideas.

My academic development will be facilitated through engagement with the academic literature and other sources of evidence as directed within the module. This includes drawing on the case studies and examples presented. To enhance my learning experience I will make an effort to engage with a wider range of literature and appropriate sources of evidence beyond that presented within the module. I will use the opportunities in seminars to engage with my peers in debate and reflect on the formative feedback provided to develop my knowledge and understanding. I will aim to make connections with other modules and use this module as a mechanism to more fully develop my intellectual and communication skills.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

Knowledge & Understanding:
about:

1. Key episodes in recent UK political history and the changing nature of the UK political system

2. Key understanding of policy development and policy making, and the roles and responsibilities of the civil servant and other relevant stakeholders.


Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
At the end of this module I will be able to:

3. Accurately describe alternative conceptual and theoretical positions and evaluate rival theories with reference to appropriate empirical material pertaining to the UK political system.


4. Appreciate the intellectual skills involved in clear communication to a range of audiences and working as part of a team to achieve this and support your potential.



Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
At the end of this module I will be able to:


5. Learn to work with others to support your own and your peers’ development for future development and employment.

Formative feedback on my contribution in small group seminar presentations and discussions, and from peers as part of the collaborative working that is integral to the module.


There are three parts to the summative assessment for this module:
Component One: Reflection on the Policy Challenge (25%)
Component Two: Policy Brief (50%)

Component Three Diary Entry (25%). Drawing upon the Civil Service Code, you will produce a one day diary entry which outlines and reflects on how a civil servant responded to a request from a minister

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This module will investigate the changing nature of the British political system and explore the role of a policymaker who works within the civil service. This module will directly engage students in ‘real word’ politics, policy development and policymaking in the UK within and beyond the traditional Westminster Model, paying particular attention to ‘policy challenges’ that are pertinent to the work of ministers and the civil service. The module will enhance students’ empirical knowledge with a strong historical and current focus on the changing nature of the British political system. The module will test a number of assumptions about the nature of the British political system and give a clearer understanding the importance of the development of policy in the civil service, and an insight into the role of the civil servant. The module has an important role to play in supporting students’ core and transferable knowledge and skills for future employment, be that within the civil service or in other areas of the public, private and voluntary and community sectors.