This module focuses on elections, voting and party systems. It examines the main theoretical approaches to the study of voting behaviour and political parties. Drawing on examples from across the globe, the module encourages students to compare and contrast the experiences of parties, politicians and voters in different contexts. Topics covered will vary, but may include electoral behaviour, political campaigning, the features of political parties and the stability or otherwise of party systems.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Identify different explanations of voting behaviour
Compare and contrast the form and content of parties and party systems from a variety of different geographical regions
Identify, analyse and evaluate the main theories explaining electoral performance of parties and candidates in a variety of national cases across the globe
Investigate and critically assess how campaigning shapes elections
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
Assessment: 1 x 1000 word coursework (25%) 1 x 2500 word coursework (75%)
