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Undergraduate Programme Specification

BA International Studies and Spanish

Academic Year 2021/22

A programme specification is required for any programme on which a student may be registered. All programmes of the University are subject to the University's Quality Assurance processes. All degrees are awarded by Queen's University Belfast.

Programme Title BA International Studies and Spanish Final Award
(exit route if applicable for Postgraduate Taught Programmes)
Bachelor of Arts
Programme Code INT-BA-JS UCAS Code LRF4 HECoS Code 100325 - Spanish studies - 50
101288 - International studies - 50
ATAS Clearance Required No
Mode of Study Full Time
Type of Programme Joint Honours Single Length of Programme Full Time - 4 Academic Year(s) Total Credits for Programme 240
Exit Awards available

Institute Information

Teaching Institution

Queen's University Belfast

School/Department

History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics

Quality Code
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code

Higher Education Credit Framework for England
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/higher-education-credit-framework-for-england

Level 6

Subject Benchmark Statements
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/subject-benchmark-statements

The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/docs/qaa/quality-code/qualifications-frameworks.pdf

Languages, Culture and Societies (2015)

Accreditations (PSRB)

Regulation Information

Does the Programme have any approved exemptions from the University General Regulations
(Please see General Regulations)

Yes Joint Honours International Studies with Spanish degrees have University permission to be classified as follows: Level 1 - 10% Level 2 - 20% Year Abroad - 10% Level 3 - 60%

Programme Specific Regulations

On completing Level I a Single Honours student in International Studies who has completed 40 CATS at Level I in the other subject and has achieved an average mark across the 40 CATS of 60 or above may be admitted to this Joint Honours programme subject having obtained the approval of the advisor of studies of the subject in which they only have 40CATS.

A Single Honours student wishing to be admitted to the Joint Honours programme must have passed the following modules: PAI1001; PAI1006.

The admission requirement of BBB is waived provided students have achieved an average mark across the 40 CATS of 60.

Students with protected characteristics

The School works with internship and placement providers and partner institutions to ensure that students with disabilities are able to complete residence abroad requirements.

Are students subject to Fitness to Practise Regulations

(Please see General Regulations)

No

Educational Aims Of Programme

• The Joint Programme in International Studies and Spanish has been designed to provide students with:

o an intellectual training in the separate and overlapping disciplines of International Studies and Spanish which, while discrete subjects, are also complementary and mutually enriching;

o advanced linguistic skills, which are informed by general language awareness, intercultural competence and high levels of critical thinking.

o a knowledge of political perspectives on society and culture by relating theory and a range of comparative observations about people's lifestyles.

o an appreciation of international politics and the role, purpose and priorities of international organisations

o an in-depth exploration of the causes of war and conflict across the globe

o a perspective from which students gain an understanding of socio-cultural differences and similarities and how they arise, are transmitted and develop; acquire knowledge and understanding of the inter-relationship between texts and contexts, a familiarity with debates surrounding culture and identity, both individual and communal, and skills in synthesising and developing ideas and arguments from diverse literary and other contemporary sources.

o a range of skills which together foster the ability to practise self-motivated learning and increase the capacity to undertake independent learning in a progressive way.

• A key premise of this three year joint programme is that understanding the present and anticipating the future requires the ability to study and interpret the past - in terms of events, literature and wider cultural environment - as a means to understanding the present.

• The International Studies part of the programme is very much designed to allow students to engage with political developments, to understand better many contemporary issues (such as the war on terror, sustainability, the banking crisis and the ongoing process of European integration and affords students the possibility of studying other parts of the world such as the Middle East and Southern Africa).

• The Spanish part of this programme enables students to focus more specifically on the Spanish speaking world and to appreciate the position of Spain and many Latin American countries towards the above issues.

• The joint programme is also designed to equip students with a range of skills which together foster the ability to practise self-motivated learning and increase the capacity to undertake independent learning in a progressive way.

• It also allows students to spend a year abroad in a Spanish-speaking country.

• Together, both subjects together equip individuals with the ability to:

o think critically, process and understand complex information;

o evaluate primary and secondary sources;

o interpret a variety of types of data and information;

o pursue independent learning;

o work well in groups and formulate arguments.

o Furthermore, students benefit from a multi-disciplinary education which gives them a large skill set and opens a wide range of career options following graduation.

• More generally, the Joint Programme in International Studies and Spanish aims to:

o attract students from local, national, and international contexts, through a variety of entry routes, and then provide and deliver the best possible learning and teaching experience, in an environment of equality, tolerance, and mutual respect;

o provide students with the necessary intellectual, practical, and key skills to enable them to develop as independent, reflective lifelong learners and able employees;

o develop a broad context for future employment, in which graduates appreciate the continuing value of an education in these two disciplines.

o Offer opportunities for study abroad through internationalization activities

• The programme will thereby foster an atmosphere of intellectual inquiry in each discipline, by offering modules which encourage a stimulating interchange of ideas.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

On successful completion of the Joint Honours Programme in International Studies and Spanish, students will have acquired analytic and critical skills including the ability to:

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Teaching on the Joint Honours Programme in International Studies and Spanish takes place in formal lectures, small group tutorials, and seminars, many of which will be enhanced by electronic media, including the facilities of Queen's On-line, and through the writing of formative and summative assessments. More specifically:

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

be self-reflective;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures and tutorials together provide knowledge and the opportunity to discuss, evaluate and apply that knowledge to texts and real world political contexts. They also provide specific contextual and theoretical information as well as offering practical examples of different critical approaches.

Methods of Assessment

These vary in accordance with the specific learning outcomes of particular modules as set out in the individual module descriptions.

exercise sound, reasoned judgment;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Seminars offer a variety of tutor-led and student-led learning opportunities as well as a more sustained opportunity to debate and evaluate a breadth of knowledge gained independently from directed reading and from the sharing of resources and information.

Methods of Assessment

Formative written work assists the development of understanding, critical judgment, and independent thought, both through the feedback given, and through the process of writing itself.

work autonomously;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests, collaborate with peers, negotiate the demands of teamwork and develop their understanding of a topic.

Methods of Assessment

Analytical, discursive, interpretive and critical exercises – both formative and summative – test students’ ability to engage with, analyse, contextualise, interpret and criticise relevant material.

think independently, originally and in a constructively critical manner;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Through class discussions, sometimes assigned to pairs or sub-groups, students develop a comparative understanding of different approaches to material and the ability to formulate their own arguments and responses.

Methods of Assessment

All these assessment methods require students to demonstrate the subject skills which are detailed in each School’s criteria for marking undergraduate work.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

On successful completion of the Joint Honours Programme in International Studies and Spanish, students will have acquired an interrelated knowledge and understanding in each discipline. Students will have acquired:

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Teaching on the Joint Honours Programme in International Studies and Spanish takes place in formal lectures, small group tutorials, and seminars, many of which will be enhanced by electronic media, including the facilities of Queen's On-line, and through the writing of formative and summative assessments. More specifically:

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

detailed knowledge of oral and written forms of Spanish;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures and tutorials together provide knowledge and the opportunity to discuss, evaluate and apply that knowledge to texts and real world political contexts. They also provide specific contextual and theoretical information as well as offering practical examples of different critical approaches.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and essays require that students demonstrate coverage of material, appropriate methods of analysis, the ability to discriminate between arguments, and the ability to form an independent argument.

Written exams help students gain a knowledge of a topic that can be readily and directly applied to a set problem or question, and also test their ability to select relevant information and to write clearly and concisely within a set time

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests and develop their understanding of a topic.

During the period of residence abroad, students complete a learning journal and a reflective report, in which they document and analyse their insights into the Target Language culture.

knowledge and understanding of the linguistic registers, structures and varieties of Spanish;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Seminars offer a variety of tutor-led and student-led learning opportunities as well as a more sustained opportunity to debate and evaluate a breadth of knowledge gained independently from directed reading and from the sharing of resources and information.

Methods of Assessment

Students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.

Language examinations test students’ ability to translate into and from the target language, textual comprehension and their ability to formulate and structure arguments in the target language.

Oral examinations enable students to demonstrate their ability to analyse, present material and pursue high-level discussion in the target language.

detailed knowledge of central features of Spanish and Latin American culture (institutions, discourses, literature, linguistics, historical background and culture) and some knowledge of their interaction/interdependence;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests, collaborate with peers, negotiate the demands of teamwork and develop their understanding of a topic.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and essays require that students demonstrate coverage of material, appropriate methods of analysis, the ability to discriminate between arguments, and the ability to form an independent argument.

Written exams help students gain a knowledge of a topic that can be readily and directly applied to a set problem or question, and also test their ability to select relevant information and to write clearly and concisely within a set time

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests and develop their understanding of a topic.

During the period of residence abroad, students complete a learning journal and a reflective report, in which they document and analyse their insights into the Target Language culture.

advanced understanding of how Spanish and Latin American culture uses language to express, communicate and develop its identity and interests;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Through class discussions, sometimes assigned to pairs or sub-groups, students develop a comparative understanding of different approaches to material and the ability to formulate their own arguments and responses.

Methods of Assessment

Students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.

Language examinations test students’ ability to translate into and from the target language, textual comprehension and their ability to formulate and structure arguments in the target language.

Oral examinations enable students to demonstrate their ability to analyse, present material and pursue high

knowledge and understanding of cultural diversity within Europe, and of Spain’s relation with Latin America.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Class presentations and student interaction in small group sessions (e.g. tutorials or seminars) hone communication and rhetorical skills.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and essays require that students demonstrate coverage of material, appropriate methods of analysis, the ability to discriminate between arguments, and the ability to form an independent argument.

Written exams help students gain a knowledge of a topic that can be readily and directly applied to a set problem or question, and also test their ability to select relevant information and to write clearly and concisely within a set time

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests and develop their understanding of a topic.

During the period of residence abroad, students complete a learning journal and a reflective report, in which they document and analyse their insights into the Target Language culture.

a good understanding of the central concepts and theoretical approaches to the study of international politics

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student-centred learning situations encourage the ability to present and summarise knowledge to peers in a coherent, structured form, and to further enhance organisational and inter-personal skills.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

an appreciation of some of the most salient issues confronting international affairs (including the war on terror, the banking crisis, sustainability and the process of European integration.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Writing skills tutorials and lectures develop essay-writing on stylistic, structural, rhetorical and bibliographical levels. The ability to collate and obtain information is developed through introductory training in the use of libraries and online resources.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

Learning Outcomes: Subject Specific

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

On successful completion of the Joint Honours Programme in International Studies and Spanish, students will have acquired a thorough critical knowledge of both disciplines as academic subjects, and also the ability to:

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Teaching on the Joint Honours Programme in International Studies and Spanish takes place in formal lectures, small group tutorials, and seminars, many of which will be enhanced by electronic media, including the facilities of Queen's On-line, and through the writing of formative and summative assessments. More specifically:

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

formulate and express political ideas and arguments;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures and tutorials together provide knowledge and the opportunity to discuss, evaluate and apply that knowledge to texts and real world political contexts. They also provide specific contextual and theoretical information as well as offering practical examples of different critical approaches.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

describe and evaluate political arguments made by others;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Seminars offer a variety of tutor-led and student-led learning opportunities as well as a more sustained opportunity to debate and evaluate a breadth of knowledge gained independently from directed reading and from the sharing of resources and information.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

understand and address questions about cultural similarity and diversity;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests, collaborate with peers, negotiate the demands of teamwork and develop their understanding of a topic.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

understand the complex relationship between theoretical ideas and ethnography;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Through class discussions, sometimes assigned to pairs or sub-groups, students develop a comparative understanding of different approaches to material and the ability to formulate their own arguments and responses.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

formulate and investigate politically-informed questions about social and cultural phenomena.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Class presentations and student interaction in small group sessions (e.g. tutorials or seminars) hone communication and rhetorical skills.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

the ability to communicate fluently and effectively with native Spanish speakers in both oral and written contexts;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Writing skills tutorials and lectures develop essay-writing on stylistic, structural, rhetorical and bibliographical levels. The ability to collate and obtain information is developed through introductory training in the use of libraries and online resources.

Methods of Assessment

Students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.
Language examinations test students’ ability to translate into and from the target language, textual comprehension and their ability to formulate and structure arguments in the target language.
Oral examinations enable students to demonstrate their ability to analyse, present material and pursue high-level discussion in the target language.

the ability to demonstrate a high level of understanding of oral and written forms of Spanish;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Language classes focus on the development of grammatical accuracy, range of vocabulary and idiom, and fluency in Spanish. Language exercises may include comprehension, résumé, essay, prose and translation, and students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and essays require that students demonstrate coverage of material, appropriate methods of analysis, the ability to discriminate between arguments, and the ability to form an independent argument.

Written exams help students gain a knowledge of a topic that can be readily and directly applied to a set problem or question, and also test their ability to select relevant information and to write clearly and concisely within a set time

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests and develop their understanding of a topic.

During the period of residence abroad, students complete a learning journal and a reflective report, in which they document and analyse their insights into the Target Language culture.

the ability to deploy an appropriate range of vocabulary, structures and registers;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Oral classes in small groups develop spoken-language skills.

Methods of Assessment

Students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.
Language examinations test students’ ability to translate into and from the target language, textual comprehension and their ability to formulate and structure arguments in the target language.
Oral examinations enable students to demonstrate their ability to analyse, present material and pursue high-level discussion in the target language.

the ability to develop independent insight into central features of Spanish language and Spanish culture, and to appreciate and engage with a culture other than their own

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Language classes focus on the development of grammatical accuracy, range of vocabulary and idiom, and fluency in Spanish. Language exercises may include comprehension, résumé, essay, prose and translation, and students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and essays require that students demonstrate coverage of material, appropriate methods of analysis, the ability to discriminate between arguments, and the ability to form an independent argument.

Written exams help students gain a knowledge of a topic that can be readily and directly applied to a set problem or question, and also test their ability to select relevant information and to write clearly and concisely within a set time

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests and develop their understanding of a topic.

During the period of residence abroad, students complete a learning journal and a reflective report, in which they document and analyse their insights

Learning Outcomes: Transferable Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

From each discipline, students will acquire a repertoire of skills which are transferable to each other as well as other areas of endeavour and enterprise, including in their future careers, specifically the ability to:

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Teaching on the Joint Honours Programme in International Studies and Spanish takes place in formal lectures, small group tutorials, and seminars, many of which will be enhanced by electronic media, including the facilities of Queen's On-line, and through the writing of formative and summative assessments. More specifically:

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

work under time-pressure and to deadlines;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures and tutorials together provide knowledge and the opportunity to discuss, evaluate and apply that knowledge to texts and real world political contexts. They also provide specific contextual and theoretical information as well as offering practical examples of different critical approaches.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

digest material from various sources;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Seminars offer a variety of tutor-led and student-led learning opportunities as well as a more sustained opportunity to debate and evaluate a breadth of knowledge gained independently from directed reading and from the sharing of resources and information.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

evaluate and judge evidence and the quality of information

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests, collaborate with peers, negotiate the demands of teamwork and develop their understanding of a topic.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

present high-quality analysis cogently and succinctly;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Through class discussions, sometimes assigned to pairs or sub-groups, students develop a comparative understanding of different approaches to material and the ability to formulate their own arguments and responses.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

make oral and group presentations using appropriate skills;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Class presentations and student interaction in small group sessions (e.g. tutorials or seminars) hone communication and rhetorical skills.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

understand the role and use of feedback in assessing and improving performance;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student-centred learning situations encourage the ability to present and summarise knowledge to peers in a coherent, structured form, and to further enhance organisational and inter-personal skills.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

reflect on intellectual and professional priorities;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

collate and process information from an array of sources, including electronic media;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Language classes focus on the development of grammatical accuracy, range of vocabulary and idiom, and fluency in Spanish. Language exercises may include comprehension, résumé, essay, prose and translation, and students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

use their knowledge in cogent, communicable ways to present arguments and clarify complex issues in both oral and written forms;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Oral classes in small groups develop spoken-language skills.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

present ideas and arguments orally in both formal and informal contexts;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

An obligatory period of residence abroad enables students to improve their linguistic ability, their political knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world, and to develop intercultural awareness.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

work effectively both independently and in a team setting;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The Learning Journal which they keep during residence abroad is an important aid in meeting the latter learning outcome.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

manage time efficiently;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This programme enables learners to develop a broad portfolio of interdisciplinary skills which will enhance their employability and/or provide them with a sound basis for progression to further research at postgraduate level (either MA or doctoral work) or elsewhere.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

respond constructively to criticism;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This programme enables learners to develop a broad portfolio of interdisciplinary skills which will enhance their employability and/or provide them with a sound basis for progression to further research at postgraduate level (either MA or doctoral work) or elsewhere.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

take notes and summarise accurately and effectively;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This programme enables learners to develop a broad portfolio of interdisciplinary skills which will enhance their employability and/or provide them with a sound basis for progression to further research at postgraduate level (either MA or doctoral work) or elsewhere.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

use libraries and online resources;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This programme enables learners to develop a broad portfolio of interdisciplinary skills which will enhance their employability and/or provide them with a sound basis for progression to further research at postgraduate level (either MA or doctoral work) or elsewhere.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

use IT skills (word processing, use of internet resources) and further development of internet literacy, use of digital technology in editing);

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This programme enables learners to develop a broad portfolio of interdisciplinary skills which will enhance their employability and/or provide them with a sound basis for progression to further research at postgraduate level (either MA or doctoral work) or elsewhere.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

comprehend and engage with theoretical and ideological models of interpretation;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Class presentations and student interaction in small group sessions (e.g. tutorials or seminars) hone communication and rhetorical skills.

Methods of Assessment

While these teaching and assessment methods deliver information to students and test their knowledge of that information in each subject, students are encouraged to assimilate and apply knowledge of both disciplines discretely to become independent, self-reflective learners.

the ability to structure, manage and adapt strategies for self-directed independent research.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student preparation for seminars requires them to read a variety of material and discuss this with their peers and the tutor. They may make individual or group presentations analysing the material in class.

Methods of Assessment

These general cognitive skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

the capacity to produce intellectually coherent academic analysis under time-managed conditions and within word limits;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Writing skills tutorials and lectures develop essay-writing on stylistic, structural, rhetorical and bibliographical levels. The ability to collate and obtain information is developed through introductory training in the use of libraries and online resources.

Methods of Assessment

These general cognitive skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

And with regard to the presentation of work, students will have acquired:

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Writing skills tutorials and lectures develop essay-writing on stylistic, structural, rhetorical and bibliographical levels. The ability to collate and obtain information is developed through introductory training in the use of libraries and online resources.

Methods of Assessment

These general cognitive skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

recognise the importance of explicit referencing and the ethical requirements of study, which requires critical and reflective use of information and information technology in the learning process;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures and tutorials together provide knowledge and the opportunity to discuss, evaluate and apply that knowledge to texts and real world political contexts. They also provide specific contextual and theoretical information as well as offering practical examples of different critical approaches.

Methods of Assessment

These general cognitive skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

manage their own learning self critically;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures and tutorials together provide knowledge and the opportunity to discuss, evaluate and apply that knowledge to texts and real world political contexts. They also provide specific contextual and theoretical information as well as offering practical examples of different critical approaches.

Methods of Assessment

A major learning resource for students is the state-of-the-art the McClay library.

reflect on their own learning and seek and make use of constructive feedback;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures and tutorials together provide knowledge and the opportunity to discuss, evaluate and apply that knowledge to texts and real world political contexts. They also provide specific contextual and theoretical information as well as offering practical examples of different critical approaches.

Methods of Assessment

Personal Development Planning facilitates student reflection upon academic performance and assists in developing strategies for improvement.

synthesise relevant information and exercise critical judgement, primarily through essay writing;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student preparation for seminars requires them to read a variety of material and discuss this with their peers and the tutor. They may make individual or group presentations analysing the material in class.

Methods of Assessment

Feedback is provided for each type and instance of assessment and students may seek dedicated feedback sessions with course tutors.

identify, investigate, analyse, formulate and advocate solutions to problems;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student preparation for seminars requires them to read a variety of material and discuss this with their peers and the tutor. They may make individual or group presentations analysing the material in class.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework is required to be submitted in a specified form and to fixed deadlines, thus teaching students to learn to prioritise assignments and objectives and to hone their organisational and time-management skills.

gather, organise and deploy evidence, data and information from a variety of secondary and some primary sources, so as to formulate and support a line of reasoning, or argument;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student preparation for seminars requires them to read a variety of material and discuss this with their peers and the tutor. They may make individual or group presentations analysing the material in class.

Methods of Assessment

Extended essays test their ability to order and shape information, and to recognise ways in which to present and prioritise material.

make judgments on the basis of varied and problematic evidence and according to the persuasiveness of the arguments or the reliability of the evidence used.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The Learning Journal which they keep during residence abroad is an important aid in meeting the latter learning outcome.

Methods of Assessment

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests and develop their understanding of a topic.

evaluate sources critically in their context;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

An obligatory period of residence abroad enables students to improve their linguistic ability, their political knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world, and to develop intercultural awareness.

Methods of Assessment

Oral examinations enable students to demonstrate their ability to analyse, present material and pursue high-level discussion in the target language.

discriminate between what is central and what is peripheral to the issue in question;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Oral classes in small groups develop spoken-language skills.

Methods of Assessment

Written exams help students gain a knowledge of a topic that can be readily and directly applied to a set problem or question, and also test their ability to select relevant information and to write clearly and concisely within a set time. Language examinations test students’ ability to translate into and from the target language, textual comprehension and their ability to formulate and structure arguments in the target language.

assess and appraise differing views on significant areas of academic debate;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Language classes focus on the development of grammatical accuracy, range of vocabulary and idiom, and fluency in Spanish. Language exercises may include comprehension, résumé, essay, prose and translation, and students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and essays require that students demonstrate coverage of material, appropriate methods of analysis, the ability to discriminate between arguments, and the ability to form an independent argument.

synthesise diverse primary evidence and subsequent academic comment; engage with and interpret layers of meaning within texts;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Writing skills tutorials and lectures develop essay-writing on stylistic, structural, rhetorical and bibliographical levels. The ability to collate and obtain information is developed through introductory training in the use of libraries and online resources.

Methods of Assessment

The different methods of assessment serve different, but complementary, purposes:

appreciate a variety of textual and cultural perspectives on academic enquiry;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student-centred learning situations encourage the ability to present and summarise knowledge to peers in a coherent, structured form, and to further enhance organisational and inter-personal skills.

Methods of Assessment

Module guides and BA Handbooks inform students in their choice of, access to, and citation of relevant secondary materials.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

By taking International Studies and Spanish modules together, students will have developed an understanding of the key concepts that are used to undertake political, literary, linguistic and historical analysis, and address major themes in the history of society and culture and theoretical approaches to society, literature and language.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Writing skills tutorials and lectures develop essay-writing on stylistic, structural, rhetorical and bibliographical levels. The ability to collate and obtain information is developed through introductory training in the use of libraries and online resources.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

and be able to link up the two disciplines

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The Learning Journal which they keep during residence abroad is an important aid in meeting the latter learning outcome.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

a basic understanding of how people's ideas and actions are shaped by their social and cultural contexts; some knowledge of how ethnography and cross-cultural comparison are used in generating, developing and evaluating political theory.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

An obligatory period of residence abroad enables students to improve their linguistic ability, their political knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world, and to develop intercultural awareness.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

an introduction into the research methods used in the study of International Politics

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Oral classes in small groups develop spoken-language skills.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

A good awareness of the role and functions of international organisations

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Language classes focus on the development of grammatical accuracy, range of vocabulary and idiom, and fluency in Spanish. Language exercises may include comprehension, résumé, essay, prose and translation, and students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

Learning Outcomes: Subject Specific

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

They will also have acquired:

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student-centred learning situations encourage the ability to present and summarise knowledge to peers in a coherent, structured form, and to further enhance organisational and inter-personal skills.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is by a variety of traditional and innovative methods, including timed unseen written examinations, data analysis, essays, critical book/article reviews, portfolios, individual and group presentations, and seminar and tutorial reports and contributions.

the ability to describe and analyse main grammatical features of Spanish, and to draw on a wide variety of resources to refine and improve their knowledge and understanding of the language;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

An obligatory period of residence abroad enables students to improve their linguistic ability, their political knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world, and to develop intercultural awareness.

Methods of Assessment

. Examinations and essays require that students demonstrate coverage of material, appropriate methods of analysis, the ability to discriminate between arguments, and the ability to form an independent argument.

Written exams help students gain a knowledge of a topic that can be readily and directly applied to a set problem or question, and also test their ability to select relevant information and to write clearly and concisely within a set time

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests and develop their understanding of a topic.

During the period of residence abroad, students complete a learning journal and a reflective report, in which they document and analyse their insights into the Target Language culture.

the ability to understand, evaluate and analyse a wide variety of texts and ideas from and about Spanish-speaking countries;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The Learning Journal which they keep during residence abroad is an important aid in meeting the latter learning outcome.

Methods of Assessment

Students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.
Language examinations test students’ ability to translate into and from the target language, textual comprehension and their ability to formulate and structure arguments in the target language.
Oral examinations enable students to demonstrate their ability to analyse, present material and pursue high-level discussion in the target language.

the ability to synthesise ideas and develop arguments in Spanish and English drawing from a wide range of diverse sources;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Language classes focus on the development of grammatical accuracy, range of vocabulary and idiom, and fluency in Spanish. Language exercises may include comprehension, résumé, essay, prose and translation, and students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.

Methods of Assessment

Examinations and essays require that students demonstrate coverage of material, appropriate methods of analysis, the ability to discriminate between arguments, and the ability to form an independent argument.

Written exams help students gain a knowledge of a topic that can be readily and directly applied to a set problem or question, and also test their ability to select relevant information and to write clearly and concisely within a set time

Group presentations are used to encourage students to pursue their own interests and develop their understanding of a topic.

During the period of residence abroad, students complete a learning journal and a reflective report, in which they document and analyse their insights into the Target Language culture.

the ability to deploy high-level critical concepts specific to linguistic, cultural, literary and language-based studies;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Language classes focus on the development of grammatical accuracy, range of vocabulary and idiom, and fluency in Spanish. Language exercises may include comprehension, résumé, essay, prose and translation, and students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.

Methods of Assessment

Students complete a series of written exercises per semester. Individual feedback on these assignments enables students, with the help and guidance of the tutor, to address areas of difficulty and thus develop their linguistic knowledge and understanding.
Language examinations test students’ ability to translate into and from the target language, textual comprehension and their ability to formulate and structure arguments in the target language.
Oral examinations enable students to demonstrate their ability to analyse, present material and pursue high-level discussion in the target language.

Creative responses (writing and practice-based) are designed to transform students from being ‘at risk’ in the evaluative process to becoming ‘risk managers’ and co-facilitators of the learning environment. They are also aimed at facilitating a broad range of intelligences among the student body and encouraging learning on a variety of levels.

Learning Outcomes: Transferable Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

communicate and interact effectively;

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This programme enables learners to develop a broad portfolio of interdisciplinary skills which will enhance their employability and/or provide them with a sound basis for progression to further research at postgraduate level (either MA or doctoral work) or elsewhere.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

show self-reliance, initiative, adaptability and flexibility.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

This programme enables learners to develop a broad portfolio of interdisciplinary skills which will enhance their employability and/or provide them with a sound basis for progression to further research at postgraduate level (either MA or doctoral work) or elsewhere.

Methods of Assessment

Transferable skills will be assessed by a variety of traditional and innovative methods including essays, exams, journals, group-work, portfolios and tutorial contributions. A currently ongoing Academic Year Review process forms the basis for extending innovation in assessment, including the range and types of coursework elements offered, across modules on the programme.

Module Information

Stages and Modules

Module Title Module Code Level/ stage Credits

Availability

Duration Pre-requisite

Assessment

S1 S2 Core Option Coursework % Practical % Examination %
Working and Studying Abroad SPA3050 3 20 YES YES 30 weeks Y YES 50% 50% 0%
International Placement: Languages Year Abroad MML3040 3 100 YES YES 30 weeks Y YES 100% 0% 0%
The Spanish Enlightenment SPA3022 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Rewriting Love in the Renaissance SPA3021 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
The Politics of Irish Literature PAI3005 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Contemporary Political Philosophy PAI3025 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 90% 10% 0%
Internship PAI3097 4 40 YES YES 12 weeks Y YES 100% 0% 0%
Dissertation (Politics and International Studies) PAI3099 4 40 YES YES 24 weeks Y YES 100% 0% 0%
Earth, Energy, Ethics and Economy: The Politics of Unsustainability PAI3026 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 90% 10% 0%
European Cultural Identities PAI3027 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 90% 10% 0%
Politics of the Global Economy PAI3063 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 90% 10% 0%
Disease and Society in Colonial Latin America SPA3038 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
The Far Right in Western Europe and North America PAI3056 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 90% 10% 0%
Political Parties and Elections in Northern Ireland PAI3058 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 90% 10% 0%
National and Ethnic Minorities in European Politics PAI3059 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Northern Ireland: A Case Study PAI3064 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Challenges to contemporary party politics PAI3067 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Politics, Public Administration and Policy-Making PAI3068 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Arms Control PAI3039 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 90% 10% 0%
Asylum and Migration in Global Politics PAI3041 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Spanish 3 SPA3101 4 40 YES YES 24 weeks Y YES 45% 20% 35%
Global Pol. Econ. of Energy PAI3012 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 90% 10% 0%
The Placement PAI3089 4 20 YES 12 weeks Y YES 100% 0% 0%
The Sacred made real: Representing Spirituality in Spain's Golden Age SPA3056 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Radical Hope:Inspiring Present-day Sustainability Transformations through an Examination of Our Past PAI3100 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 90% 10% 0%
Politics and International Relations of East Asia PAI3101 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Afterlives of the Empire: Decolonisation in the Portuguese-speaking World SPA3132 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%

Notes

Students are required to complete a year long period of residence in a Spanish speaking country between Level 2 and Level 4. Students will enrol for MML3040 International Placement Module (100 CATS) and take the SPA3050 ‘Working and Studying Abroad Module (20 CATS)

Students must take 120 credits - 6 MODULES (THREE in Semester 1 and THREE in Semester 2). Students are required to take ONE core double-weighted full-year Spanish module. Students are required to take one of: (a) PAI3097 Internship (double weighted – either semester) and a further ONE OPTIONAL International Studies module PLUS ONE OPTIONAL Spanish module OR (b) PAI3099 Dissertation (double weighted – both semesters) and a further ONE OPTIONAL International Studies module PLUS ONE OPTIONAL Spanish module OR (c ) FOUR OPTIONAL modules (THREE OPTIONAL International Studies modules PLUS ONE OPTIONAL Spanish module. PLEASE NOTE: Students MUST consult their Advisor of Studies before enrolling for TWO double-weighted modules. “Students will be notified each academic year of the optional modules being offered in the following academic year. Students are advised that not all optional modules will necessarily be offered in each academic year. Also, the delivery of a module may be subject to a minimum number of enrolments as well as unforeseen circumstances (e.g. illness of a member of staff). The range and content of optional modules will change over time as degree programmes develop and students’ choice of optional modules may also be limited due to timetabling constraints.“