Saint-Louis University - Bruxelles
English
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SPOL1312 - International Relations



Credits : 3

Lecturer :
Mode of delivery :
Face-to-face , first term, 30 hours of theory.

Timetable :
First term
Friday from 11:00 to 13:00 at 119 Marais 1100

Language of instruction :
English


Learning outcomes :
This course provides the knowledge and competences needed for the understanding and the analysis of international phenomena. More precisely, the course aims at making students:
1. Gain knowledge of the main actors and stakes of international relations.
2. Understand the main concepts and theories used in international relations.

At the end of the course, students should :
1. be able to associate each concept/theory to at least one concrete example;
2. have developed analytical skills and a critical mind with regards to the ideas produced by observers and practitioners on the international scene;
3. be able to discuss in detail the information contained in short publications dealing with international relations.


Prerequisites :
Co-requisites :
None

Course contents :
Each class can be understood individually. Put together, all classes follow the evolution of the discipline. They are organized as follows:

I. From international relations to International Relations: history and definition;
II. Analysing war and peace after World-War I: the classical theories of international relations;
III. Cold-War dynamics: the opening to the neo-classical debates;
IV. Questioning the importance of war and peace: when the economy shapes international relations;
V. Questioning the State as unit of analysis;
VI. Questioning the premises of IR theory.


Planned learning activities and teaching methods :
Each class starts with a common activity (role-playing, games, videos, etc.). It then exposes particular theories/concepts of international relations and gives concrete illustrations. The course rests on three teaching methods: active learning during the introductory activities; lectures that are given by the professor; several readings associated to the classes.

Assessment methods and criteria :
The evaluation of the course is done in two steps:
- By a MCQ (multiple-choice questionnaire) (8/20)
- By three questions on the course and on the compulsory readings (12/20)


Recommended or required reading :
In addition to very short compulsory readings, a list of useful references for the course is provided.

Other information :
None