Critical approaches to Development
Postgraduate course
- ECTS credits
- 15
- Teaching semesters
- Autumn
- Course code
- GLODE300
- Number of semesters
- 1
- Teaching language
- English
- Resources
- Schedule
Course description
Objectives and Content
The main aim of this course is to develop an advanced comprehension of the multi-level and complex processes of development and the role of institutional actors in these processes. The course will familiarise the student with the historical evolution of theories of development and encourage critical reflection on SDGs as the most recent formulation, as well as other contemporary debates. Emphasis is placed on developing thorough knowledge of development ethics in terms of the various social and political dilemmas that the practice of development can lead to.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this course the students should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills, and general competence:
Knowledge
The student has in-depth knowledge of:
- Colonial roots of inequalities
- Development theories and development practices in current and historical contexts, including the sustainable development goals and post-development perspectives
- Governance and actors in contemporary development practice and aid
- Development ethics and human rights
Skills
The student:
- Can deal critically with various sources of information on development issues and apply them to structure and formulate independent scholarly arguments
- Can analyse challenging development issues from various perspectives, including their governance context and implications for rights and social justice.
General competence
The student:
- Can critically assess historical and contemporary approaches to development and global challenges
- Can coherently communicate ideas concerning development and aid in the context of globalization both in written work and in oral presentations
- Has the ability to take leadership positions in interdisciplinary group work and problem solving over time
Full-time/Part-time
Full-time
ECTS Credits
15 ECTS
Level of Study
Master's
Semester of Instruction
Autumn
Required Previous Knowledge
None
Access to the Course
Open only to students registered in the Master's Programme in Global Development Theory and Practice.
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods will comprise lectures, seminars, workshops, and a problem-based learning component.
Teaching Methods and Extent of Organized Teaching
Teaching methods will comprise lectures, seminars, workshops, student-led learning and a problem based learning component, as well as individual feedback on one writing assignment.
Compulsory Assignments and Attendance
All activities and assignments must be completed and approved before the exam.
Forms of Assessment
Home exam, 7 days, 3000 words, related to the learning outcomes of the course. NOTE: ChatGDP and other AI text generators are not allowed in submitted written work and home exams.
Grading Scale
A-F
Assessment Semester
Autumn
Reading List
Will be available July 1st.
Course Evaluation
The course will be evaluated in accordance with the Faculty of Psychology's routines for participatory evaluation and the University of Bergen's Quality Assurance System.
Programme Committee
Department of Health Promotion and Development, Faculty of Psychology.
Course Coordinator
Department of Health Promotion and Development, Faculty of Psychology.
Course Administrator
Department of Health Promotion and Development, Faculty of Psychology.