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eric: utilities: FAQs: INTR319
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FAQs: |
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1. Why does the module bother with/start with medieval history? One of the key learning points of the module is that our attitudes to the environment are a key part of the problem. These attitudes, sharpened by modernity and made dangerous by the industrial revolution, have their roots in our ancestors relationship to the natural world? 2. Why is there so much theory? You need to decide whether we can cope with environmental stress (as a species) simply by changing the way we do things or whether we need to change the way we think. The major traditional theories of IR all contain un-stated assumptions which we need to expose. 3. It's not on the syllabus but can I do my essay on [blank]? (Where blank could be any environmental issue or phenomenon eg: whaling, the work of greenpeace or renewable energy?) Yes, but it would be best to check with your tutor. You would also want to be aware of the two questions below. 4. How much theory do I need in my essay? You need to relate your work to either green thought or IR theory or both. Purely descriptive essays may pass but they will not be awarded the highest marks. 5. But 'Why' do I need theory in my essay? In order to ensure that you can confidently declare your degree of an appropriate standard, external examiners have always insisted that we ensure the appropriate theoretical content of work especially at final level. Being able to relate the practical (politics) to the theoretical (IR) is an important skill which will serve you well outside the University context. 6. Why are there no right answers on this module? We are dealing with a huge range of opinion. Additionally the environment has at least political, economic, historical and sociological aspects. The module can only help you to find the best answers you can. 7. What is sustainable development? Look at the question above. Here is a case in point! Some people dismiss the idea saying that development implies destruction of resources and that cannot be sustainable. Such people might argue it is simply a way of defending capitalism. Others have great faith in something which will save civilisation by blending environmental concern, economic growth, social justice and rational governance. 8. Isn't the module attempting too much? I constantly struggle with this one myself. Aside from general learning outcomes, the module is designed to be a personal journey with no pre-ordained end point. But with this flexibility does come uncertainty for some students, who might like to see the question below. 9. Do you assess the module differently because of its breadth? Providing students can demonstrate a decent structure and a good level of reading the module aims to encourage creativity and risk taking in terms of assignments. This means 'giving the benefit of the doubt' but the words in italics should be stressed! No one submitting the assignments has ever failed INTR319 (although some have come close - it is not a soft touch) 10. Given the
question above, is it a gamble to take INTR319? Not at all. As well
as most students passing, the module average is around the norm for all
IR modules, being slightly higher |
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