AMU1325 - Introduction to world politics and history - 2019

This unit emphasises the study of major political events and historical developments of the twentieth century as one route to understanding current world issues. Through lectures, class discussion and written work, students will explore how rivalry and conflict between states and peoples in the twentieth century have been closely intertwined with the rise of ideologies such as imperialism, nationalism, communism, liberal democracy and religious ideas. A close reading of particular events as they unfolded in selected parts of the world demonstrate also how external developments and local factors interact to shape local as well as international dynamics, with implications also for current world affairs.

Upon successful completion of the unit, students should be able to:

1. Describe the major historical events and political conflicts of the twentieth century as studied in the unit;
2. Identify and locate historical places on maps;
3. Describe the main ideologies of the twentieth century;
4. Explain the role played by these ideologies in the events and conflicts studied in the unit;
5. Analyse the causes and consequences of major events and political conflicts of the twentieth century;
6. Interpret primary and secondary documents through developing critical reading skills;
7. Communicate ideas and arguments in verbal form;
8. Write research reports and essays.

Within semester assessment: 70% + Exam: 30%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Global studies

Global studies in communication and media