Problem solve

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Instruction in the use of the university Library and the QUB Online information system are core elements of the induction process. Coursework (in the form of essay writing) comprises a central element of the overall Masters learning and teaching process thus facilitating the development of practical research, presentational and IT skills. Students are encouraged to attend the many staff seminars and guest lectures organised throughout the year which include nationally and internationally renowned speakers. Students are required to take a module in research methods which equips them with an understanding of theories of research and research methodologies. Students are introduced to the wide range of source material on the Internet and are guided in the use of this material to develop skills of critical analysis.

Furthermore, in congruence with the transformative learning philosophy of the MSc, cognitive skills are developed across the modules within the programme. Within each module, cognitive skills will be framed around a number of perspectives including interpersonal skills, diversity and teamwork; developing problem solving skills through competency; and assimilation, formulation and persuasion of evidence-based arguments and decision-making practice. For all Modules, independent enquiry, critical evaluation and interpretation, abstraction and assimilation are key elements.

Methods of Assessment

Self-assessment and reflection will be specifically enhanced by formative feedback on presentations, and summative feedback on assignments and the dissertation.

Engage in independent enquiry

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Instruction in the use of the university Library and the QUB Online information system are core elements of the induction process. Coursework (in the form of essay writing) comprises a central element of the overall Masters learning and teaching process thus facilitating the development of practical research, presentational and IT skills. Students are encouraged to attend the many staff seminars and guest lectures organised throughout the year which include nationally and internationally renowned speakers. Students are required to take a module in research methods which equips them with an understanding of theories of research and research methodologies. Students are introduced to the wide range of source material on the Internet and are guided in the use of this material to develop skills of critical analysis.

Methods of Assessment

Self-assessment and reflection will be specifically enhanced by formative feedback on presentations, and summative feedback on assignments and the dissertation.

Critically evaluate and interpret

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

In congruence with the transformative learning philosophy of the MSc, cognitive skills are developed across the modules within the programme. Within each module, cognitive skills will be framed around a number of perspectives including interpersonal skills, diversity and teamwork; developing problem solving skills through competency; and assimilation, formulation and persuasion of evidence-based arguments and decision-making practice. For all Modules, independent enquiry, critical evaluation and interpretation, abstraction and assimilation are key elements.

Methods of Assessment

Self-assessment and reflection will be specifically enhanced by formative feedback on presentations, and summative feedback on assignments and the dissertation

Self-assess and reflect

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Furthermore, in congruence with the transformative learning philosophy of the MSc, cognitive skills are developed across the modules within the programme. Within each module, cognitive skills will be framed around a number of perspectives including interpersonal skills, diversity and teamwork; developing problem solving skills through competency; and assimilation, formulation and persuasion of evidence-based arguments and decision-making practice. For all Modules, independent enquiry, critical evaluation and interpretation, abstraction and assimilation are key elements.

Methods of Assessment

Self-assessment and reflection will be specifically enhanced by formative feedback on presentations, and summative feedback on assignments and the dissertation.

Discuss contemporary trends and innovations across a range of public policy fields nationally and internationally

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Trends and innovations across a range of public policy fields will be integral to the six taught modules, as well as the dissertation for MSc students. The modules are taught using lectures, seminars, problem-centred techniques such as case studies, computer/software practical demonstrations and applications, non-book media (videos and podcasts), individual research, oral presentations and group projects. Other/new innovative teaching methods will be introduced/incorporated, as appropriate.

Methods of Assessment

Students will complete individual and group written assignments, oral presentations, groupwork and research work.
Other/new innovative assessment methods will be introduced and incorporated, as appropriate and in line with School policies.

Develop new analytical and evaluative skills which link theory with practice.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Six taught modules, plus a dissertation for MSc students. The modules are taught using lectures, seminars, problem-centred techniques such as case studies, computer/software practical demonstrations and applications, non-book media (videos and podcasts), individual research, oral presentations and group projects. Other/new innovative teaching methods will be introduced/incorporated, as appropriate

Methods of Assessment

Students will complete individual and group written assignments, oral presentations, groupwork and research work. Other/new innovative assessment methods will be introduced and incorporated, as appropriate and in line with School policies.

Compare and contrast the study and practice of public policy over time and across jurisdictions.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The study and practice of public policy over time and across jurisdictions will be foundational in the core International Public Policy Module, and the dissertation for MSc students.

Methods of Assessment

Students will complete individual and group written assignments, oral presentations, groupwork and research work.
Other/new innovative assessment methods will be introduced and incorporated, as appropriate and in line with School policies.

Understand theoretical debates and their evolution in the respective policy field (seminal, current and emerging) so students may be able to critically evaluate policy choices and reform trajectories.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This will be part of all taught modules, and the dissertation for MSc students. The modules are taught using lectures, seminars, problem-centred techniques such as case studies, computer/software practical demonstrations and applications, non-book media (videos and podcasts), individual research, oral presentations and group projects. Other/new innovative teaching methods will be introduced/incorporated, as appropriate.

Methods of Assessment

Students will complete individual and group written assignments, oral presentations, groupwork and research work. Other/new innovative assessment methods will be introduced and incorporated, as appropriate and in line with School policies.

Understand legislative and economic parameters framing public policy, at both a national and international level.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This will be part of all taught modules, and the dissertation for MSc students. The modules are taught using lectures, seminars, problem-centred techniques such as case studies, computer/software practical demonstrations and applications, non-book media (videos and podcasts), individual research, oral presentations and group projects. Other/new innovative teaching methods will be introduced/incorporated, as appropriate.

Methods of Assessment

Students will complete individual and group written assignments, oral presentations, groupwork and research work. Other/new innovative assessment methods will be introduced and incorporated, as appropriate and in line with School policies.

Examine selected case studies of prominent contemporary policy issues in the respective policy field.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Case studies form part of the six taught modules. The modules are taught using lectures, seminars, problem-centred techniques such as case studies, computer/software practical demonstrations and applications, non-book media (videos and podcasts), individual research, oral presentations and group projects. Other/new innovative teaching methods will be introduced/incorporated, as appropriate.

Methods of Assessment

Students will complete individual and group written assignments, oral presentations, groupwork and research work. Other/new innovative assessment methods will be introduced and incorporated, as appropriate and in line with School policies.

Critically evaluate key theories and trends in the study of public policy as well as in the specific policy fields pertaining to their chosen elective Modules.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

As per teaching for ‘Knowledge and Understanding’ above. Students will also:
-Gather and assess relevant information appropriate for subject-specific public policy decision making.

-Problem-solve and identify criteria for evaluating public policy problems.

-Effectively assess, contextualise and examine policy options in local and national contexts.

-As part of the programme assessment scheme, to develop and produce coherent written assignments and for MSc students a dissertation that demonstrate advanced written skills and ability to prepare and present written work in a coherent manner.

Methods of Assessment

Students will complete individual and group written assignments, oral presentations, groupwork and research work. Other/new innovative assessment methods will be introduced/incorporated, as appropriate.

Apply data analysis and evaluation techniques to address policy problems.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students will gather and assess relevant information appropriate for subject-specific public policy decision making.

Methods of Assessment

Students will complete individual and group written assignments, oral presentations, groupwork and research work. Other/new innovative assessment methods will be incorporated, as appropriate.

Locate policy problems and solutions in wider political, social and economic frames.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students will problem-solve and effectively assess, contextualise and examine policy options in local and national contexts.

Methods of Assessment

Students will complete individual and group written assignments, oral presentations, groupwork and research work. Other/new innovative assessment methods will be incorporated, as appropriate.

Synthesise and evaluate information/data from a variety of sources including from databases, books, journal articles and the internet

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Transferable skills development will permeate the teaching and learning on the MSc programme. Successful completion of classwork, projects and coursework requires students to gather information from a range of sources, select and assimilate relevant information and to complete tasks within deadlines.

The process of independent study that underlines the entire programme of study, coupled with guidance and individual feedback on essays (and for MSc students also on their dissertation), facilitate the development of autonomy and personal skills – in addition to how this manifests itself at undergraduate level, postgraduates will also be able to exercise initiative, self-direction and personal responsibility.
Use of the internet, QUB Online information system (including information retrieval, email communication and document exchange) and word-processing are fundamental elements of the entire learning and teaching process.
Students undertaking the CMI-accredited Certificate will benefit from additional strategic management and leadership skills development.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of coursework will require students to use a range of written formats (e.g. reports, plans, essays, Powerpoint presentations) to demonstrate their learning. For MSc students, completion of the dissertation project develops extra skills in independent research enquiry, data analysis and presentation.

The preparation and communication of ideas in both written and presentational forms

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Communication in written and presentational forms will permeate the teaching and learning on the MSc programme. Successful completion of classwork, projects and coursework requires students to gather information from a range of sources, select and assimilate relevant information and to complete tasks within deadlines.
Use of the internet, QUB Online information system (including information retrieval, email communication and document exchange) and word-processing are fundamental elements of the entire learning and teaching process.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of coursework will require students to use a range of written formats (e.g. reports, plans, essays, Powerpoint presentations) to demonstrate their learning. For MSc students, completion of the dissertation project develops extra skills in independent research enquiry, data analysis and communication.

Work both independently and in groups

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

In addition to data synthesis and analysis, postgraduates will also be able to exercise initiative, self-direction and personal responsibility and to learn to work in teams.
These skills will also be enhanced by the CMI-accredited Certificate.

Methods of Assessment

Assessments methods will include both individual and group work across a range of formats (e.g. reports, plans, essays, Powerpoint presentations) to demonstrate their learning. For MSc students, completion of the dissertation project develops extra skills in independent research enquiry, data analysis and presentation.

Organisation and time management

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The range of coursework plus study visits and CMI programme will require students to develop their skills in independent research enquiry, organisation and time management.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of coursework will require students to use a range of written formats (e.g. reports, plans, essays, Powerpoint presentations) to practice organisation and time management skills.

Problem solving and critical analysis

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The process of independent study that underlines the entire programme of study, coupled with guidance and individual feedback on essays (and for MSc students also on their dissertation), facilitates the development of Problem solving and critical analysis skills.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of coursework will require students to use a range of written formats (e.g. reports, plans, essays, Powerpoint presentations) to demonstrate their problem solving and critical analysis. For MSc students, completion of the dissertation project develops extra skills in independent research enquiry, data analysis and presentation.