module specification

This module will provide students with an overview of some of the major theories of and issues in contemporary peace and conflict. As such, it will examine the causes behind modern, 21st-century conflicts – including economic, political and social factors – as well as the major challenges to resolving conflicts and building peace, including in relation to areas such as gender and the environment. This is a core module for the BA International Relations with Peace and Conflict Studies pathway.

Its aims are to examine:

• Competing theories of peace and conflict
• The key concepts of peace and conflict
• The nature and causes of conflict in the contemporary era
• Some of the major challenges the world faces in seeking to resolve conflicts and build peace

None; Available for Study Abroad students

The syllabus will include:

1. Approaches to the study of peace and conflict; major concepts in peace and conflict; Just War theory and humanitarian intervention (1, 2)

2. Violent conflict in the contemporary world; traditional and contemporary theories of war (2, 3)

3. Key 21st century issues in peace and conflict, including the environment, gender and the internet (2, 3)

Teaching will comprise weekly lectures and seminars. Lectures will focus on major theories and practice of peace and conflict. Seminars will involve small group discussions, debates and group work.

This module is practically oriented and a heavy emphasis is placed on employability, which is embedded throughout the module in the following ways: guest lectures and workshops facilitated by practitioners such as non-governmental organisations; simulations and role-play exercises exploring the practicalities of working for peace; the briefing paper component of assessment and related class activities; and guidance on producing a briefing paper for an organisation working in this field

The module makes extensive use of blended learning, primarily through full use of the dedicated Weblearn site for the module, including interactive use of the mail and discussion tools, module information, lecture PowerPoint slides, and scanned copies of key texts that are not available electronically

Reflective learning will be encouraged through the practical activities and the regular interactive lectures, seminar discussions and activities. Students will be required to attend all classes, to engage in the set activities, to prepare in advance by undertaking assigned readings, to complete coursework by deadlines, and to reflect and act on the feedback they receive.

On successful completion of this module, you will have gained:

1. An understanding of the main theoretical approaches to peace and conflict
2. A critical appreciation of the central debates concerning the nature and causes of conflict in the contemporary era
3. An awareness of the complex and diverse ways in which conflict impacts upon the world, including issues relating to gender and the environment.

Assessment is based on the following elements:

FORMATIVE
1. A classroom debate based on the topic of the lecture, with feedback given to students at the end of the class. This will take place in week 4.

SUMMATIVE

2. An essay, worth 100% of the final grade. It will be 2500 words in length. This must be submitted by week 11.

https://rl.talis.com/3/londonmet/lists/E548D5A5-ABCB-34DD-E65F-6A96BB32EF6A.html

Useful Websites

• Stockholm International Peace Research (www.sipri.org)
• Peace Research Institute Oslo (www.prio.org)
• Uppsala University, Department of Peace and Conflict Research (www.per.uu.se)
• Beyond Intractability (www.beyondintractability.org)
• Virtual Library: Peace, Conflict Resolution and International Security (www2.etown.edu/vl/peace.html)
• International Alert (http://www.international-alert.org)