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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Politics, Policy And Society
Reference BS3154 Version 1
Created February 2024 SCQF Level SCQF 9
Approved March 2024 SCQF Points 15
Amended ECTS Points 7.5

Aims of Module
To provide a critical introduction to the main institutions and processes of governance and policy-making, with a view to enabling students to better understand the role of politics and policy in contemporary society.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Demonstrate a critical awareness of the main features and functions of modern political systems.
2 Apply policy analysis skills to better understand the relationship between policy, policy-makers and wider society.
3 Critically appraise the effectiveness of contemporary policy processes.

Indicative Module Content
The exact elements to be covered will be fluid in order to respond to contemporary developments in the world of politics and policymaking. However, it is envisaged that the following topics would be covered: politics and society; the modern nation-state; democracy and participation; political parties and elections; social movements, pressure groups and activism; the policy cycle; key actors in policymaking; analysing/critiquing public policy.

Module Delivery
This is a lecture-based course. Key points from the lectures will be explored in greater contextual detail in supporting tutorials/seminars. A range of case studies covering various elements of politics and policymaking will be used to ground abstract concepts.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 30 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 120 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 150 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3
Description: A written assignment based around practical application of the critical skills developed in the module.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The overall grade for this module is based on the grade awarded for the written coursework.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A A grade of 'A' in the written coursework.
B A grade of 'B' in the written coursework.
C A grade of 'C' in the written coursework.
D A grade of 'D' in the written coursework.
E A grade of 'E' in the written coursework.
F A grade of 'F' in the written coursework.
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 DE NARDIS, F., 2020. Understanding politics and society. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
2 CAIRNEY, P., 2019. Understanding public policy: theories and issues (2nd Ed.) London: Bloomsbury.
3 JACKSON, N. and TANSEY, S., 2014. Politics: the basics. London: Routledge.
4 HEYWOOD, A. 2019. Politics (5th Ed.) London: Bloomsbury.
5 CAIRNEY, P. 2021. The politics of policy analysis. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.


Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781