Module: POL6101-40 Environment, Politics and Philosophy Project

Level: 6

Credit Value: 40

Module Tutor: 

Module Tutor Contact Details: 

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This is an opportunity to undertake an applied project in which you bring together your work in Environment, Politics and Philosophy in varying proportions and to focus on themes and topics which interest you – and which may be important to those you might be working with. 

Your project may involve various forms of research and data analysis, analysing policy or strategy of a governmental or non-governmental organisation, at a local, regional or international level. It could lead to a formal dissertation or series of shorter research papers.

You might want to produce a creative response to contemporary environmental, political and philosophical challenges, drawing on your subject skills and insights. You could produce and reflect on recommendations for change, campaign materials, or learning resources, which serve to raise your issue and set out your solutions for a chosen audience. You may want to consider working with a local environmental charity or campaign group, or locating your work in wider political or philosophical traditions. You may wish to write a formal academic paper, or propose a treatment for an exhibition which presents your research in a different way, for a different purpose. You’ll be able to agree this with your supervisor at the preliminary development stage of your project.

2. Outline syllabus:

This is an independent project, in which you’ll design, implement and evaluate your own piece of work. Depending on the nature of the topic chosen and of your approach to it, you’ll be able to take part in reading groups, research seminars and writing workshops, together with individual supervisions. Seminar topics may include:

• Project design

• Research ethics

• Collecting and analysing data

• Managing your project

• Publishing & presenting your findings and responses

• Contributing to political debates and strategies

• Taking your work into public fora or working with external partners

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Reading groups, research seminars and supervisions.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Position Paper and Project Proposal

• % Weighting: 20%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Research Paper or Project Portfolio

• % Weighting: 80%