This module will introduce students to the concept of development and ideas about how it should be pursued. It will examine the ideas and imperatives shaping development policy, such as market led, sustainable, rights based and gender-equitable approaches and will explore the contradictions or intersections between these approaches. It will then set out key development challenges, including climate change, alternatives to development and the problem of conflict. It will discuss the particular challenges presented by 'fragile states' and will explore the relationships between development policy, conflict and other development challenges in depth, analysing and comparing cases.

Introduction: What is development? exploring concepts and theories Part 1: Contemporary approaches to development: Good governance; sustainable development; rights-based development, gender and development, human security Part 2: Contemporary challenges to development: Climate change and environmental threats, The 'conflict trap'? exploring the linkages between development and violence; social movements, alternatives and resistance to globalisation; Part 3: Development in 'fragile states': case-studies.

1. Knowledge and understanding of key debates about development 2. An ability to critically evaluate and synthesise these debates 3. An ability to apply theories and concepts to the analysis of particular cases 4. the development of advanced research, essay writing and presentation skills

1.An awareness of values and norms that underpin the development enterprise 2. An awareness of debates, and of diverse views and an ability to respond to these with consideration and respect 3. An awareness of how to apply reason and evidence in the analysis of complex and sensitive questions.

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The graduate seminar in development will be composed of lectures, student presentations and discussions. Students will be required to write essays, give presentations and engage in debates in various forms. Knowledge: Students will be provided with an extensive reading list identifying both key readings and a longer list of relevant readings. They will be expected to critically review the literature in their assignments. They will undertake individual research and will also be encouraged to participate in group activities in class. Lectures will provide insights into the literature, key concepts and debates and will guide students to most significant and recent research findings. Proactive: Students will be actively encouraged through various techniques in class and in assignments to lead discussions in seminars and to develop further their skills as researchers and analysts. They will be expected to collaborate as a learning community in seminars, for instance through debates, small group work and roundtables. Responsible: Achievement will depend on independent work and students will recognise the importance of this. Articulate: assignments will demand critical thinking skills and the application of disciplinary knowledge and students will be supported to develop their written and verbal literacy.