Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

The unit 'Contemporary Europe' surveys political, economic, social and cultural developments in today's Europe. It provides students with in-depth analysis of the legacy of post-war politics and of cold-war divisions on the European continent. It examines its later partial unification, related challenges, its relations with and impact on the world today. It highlights contemporary European approaches to economic development, the environment, migration, religious and cultural diversity as well as the complexities of citizenship, ethnicity and gender. The unit establishes the foundations for an understanding of contemporary Europe, including the European Union and its unique integration model.

Objectives

Upon completion of the unit students will be able to:

1. Critically explore the changing political, economic, social and cultural landscape of contemporary Europe
2. have a basic understanding of today's Europe and of the European Union as an example of regional integration and as a regional trading block
3. have a critical understanding of contemporary challenges confronting the unification of the European states such as the creation of common policies in the areas of migration, foreign policy, cultural and religious diversity, the environment, energy, as well as post-national citizenship and democratic legitimacy of post-national governance
4. demonstrate an ability for critical thinking on Europe and the European Union in the context of the debates on globalisation and regionalisation
5. collect data on European politics, economy, society and culture using suitable methodological resources

Assessment

Tutorial preparation and participation: 6%
Oral class presentation (250 words): 6%
Essay 1 (1000 words): 22%
Essay 2 (1500 words): 33%
Exam (1.5 hours, 1500 words): 33%

Chief examiner(s)

Eva Polonska-Kimunguyi

Contact hours

Two 1-hour lecture per week + One 1-hour tutorial per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

European and European Union studies