Module description
This module aims to introduce students to the multidisciplinary field of education and international development, and, in doing so, to enable students to engage critically with theory, policy and practice concerning the role of education in processes of social, political and economic transformation in low- and middle-income country contexts. The first part of the module will cover key theories and concepts of development as they pertain to education, including human capital, the capabilities approach, and post-colonial perspectives. As part of supporting students to develop an in-depth understanding of the historical, philosophical, social and political dimensions of education and development, we will also consider the influence and contemporary priorities of international institutions and organisations in education for development. The latter part of the module will take an issue-based approach, drawing on empirical and theoretical insights from a variety of disciplinary perspectives to encourage students to engage critically with topical policy issues (e.g. the provision of universal basic education), controversial debates (e.g. privatisation and the use of digital technologies) and practical challenges (e.g. education in emergencies) concerning education and development in resource constrained circumstances.
Assessment details
- 1,000 word blog (30%)
- 3,000 word essay (70%)
Educational aims & objectives
This module aims to introduce students to the multidisciplinary field of education and international development, and, in doing so, to enable students to engage critically with theory, policy and practice concerning the role of education in processes of social, political and economic transformation in low- and middle-income country contexts. The first part of the module will cover key theories and concepts of development as they pertain to education, including human capital, the capabilities approach, and post-colonial perspectives. As part of supporting students to develop an in-depth understanding of the historical, philosophical, social and political dimensions of education and development, we will also consider the influence and contemporary priorities of international institutions and organisations within the sector. The latter part of the module will take an issue-based approach, drawing on empirical and theoretical insights from a variety of disciplinary perspectives to encourage students to engage critically with topical policy issues (e.g. the provision of universal basic education), debates (e.g. privatisation and the use of digital technologies) and practical challenges concerning education and development in resource constrained circumstances. The assignments will require students to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of issues relevant to the field of study, and to apply the skills and knowledge they have acquired in practical exercises typical of professional requirements in the international development sector.
Overall, the module will enable students to:
* Develop critical and constructive understanding of the historical, social, political and philosophical evolution of the multidisciplinary field of education and international development;
* Understand and engage critically with theoretical and methodological debates surrounding education and international development from a variety of disciplinary perspectives;
* Reflect critically on the role, influence and contemporary priorities of international institutions and organisations within the sector;
* Apply theories and insights from the academic literature to engage critically with topical policy issues and practical challenges concerning education and development; and
* Investigate such issues independently and communicate their thoughts and findings in a variety of ways.