Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit challenges students to think through the issues that shape how communities are governed in Australia and elsewhere. Students of Australian and foreign backgrounds share their experiences in all spheres of government, the non-profit sector and the private sectors. It examines the basis of democratic society, how political systems work, and the relationships between politicians and public servants. It covers ethics and accountability, including the role of the media, and the importance of civil society -- non-government networks and activity -- in the operation of a community's governance.

Objectives

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

• explain the concept of Integrated Governance including the theoretical foundations, significant features, debates and governance issues affecting national societies, international regions and the global community
• outline the roles and dynamic (i.e. constantly changing) relationships of the public (i.e. state) sector, market (i.e. corporate) sector and civil society and their institutions in governance
• recognise and organise the main ideas relating to the good governance of a society, an international region and the global community, with particular reference to the factors affecting the capacity to adapt and implement policy in response to changing conditions in the physical, social and/or economic environment
• create and develop ideas for reform of governance to meet particular policy objectives
• design and investigate a research question related to governance and report the findings in an assignment, to the expected standard.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Ken Coghill

Contact hours

3 hours per week