MODULE OVERVIEW

In the Spring 2020 semester, I co-taught two modules, both of which (to varying degrees) formed the basis for this study.

COURSE 1: Politics in Northern Ireland

MODULE OBJECTIVE:

On completion of this module, students should have a detailed understanding of the government and politics of Northern Ireland.

MODULE CONTENT:

This module provides an overview of the actors involved in the Northern Ireland conflict. The conflict is assessed in detail, with a concentration on its causes and effects. The constitutional and institutional structures established under the Good Friday Agreement are critically evaluated. Finally, post-Agreement Northern Ireland is studied.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

  • Describe and analyse the origins, roots and causes of the Northern Ireland conflict;
  • Identify and assess the key actors in the conflict;
  • Document and critically evaluate attempts to manage/resolve the conflict;
  • Chart and examine the peace process;
  • Critically analyse the Good Friday Agreement and the long-term prospects for peace in Northern Ireland.

COURSE 2: Conflict and Conflict Resolution

MODULE OBJECTIVE:

To develop an understanding of conflict, conflict prevention and conflict resolution.

MODULE CONTENT:

An analysis of the concepts, developments, successes, failures and challenges in the study of conflict and conflict resolution.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

  • Identify and describe key concepts in the study of conflict and conflict resolution.
  • Chart key developments in the study of conflict and conflict resolution.
  • Evalutate successes and failures in the field of conflict resolution, conflict management, peace-keeping and peace-building.
  • Assess the main contemporary challenges and debates around conflict and conflict resolution.
  • Research and present information effectively and comprehensively.
  • Analyse information creatively and imaginatively in seeking to manage and resolve political conflicts.

Both modules explore overlapping themes: What is conflict? When, where and why do conflicts become violent? Can conflicts be transformed or resolved, how, and with what consequences? How are peace and conflict (and experiences of these) structured by class, ethnicity and gender? As such, key questions about social justice are bound up in the material covered in both modules.