Measuring institutions: classifications and typologies (Vrije Universiteit Brussel)

Academic year: 2010-2011 Course code module 1MIPO_220 Semester: 2nd semester Credits: 3 Study load (hours) 84 Theory (hours): 8,00 Practice/Exercises(hours): 15,00 Other (hours): Part-time program: 2 Instructor(s) N. Language of instruction: Dutch Semester exam information: exam in the 2nd semester Contract restriction information: exam and credit contract not possible 1. Prerequisites *Algemene competenties This seminar follows logically after the 'Research design for the Master thesis' in the first semester. *Sequentiality None 2. Objectives (expected learning outcomes) In modern political science institutions have received a prominent place as elements explaining the choices of political actors. That means that we should be able to accurately measure and classify political instutions in order to compare them in a meaningful way. In this short seminar the students discover some basic rules in this respect and they learn how to solve methodlogical questions related to the analysis of political institutions. 3. Course content The content can vary according to the themes that the students would like to deal with in their master thesis. The folliwng is thus only an example of what could possibly be done: - The logic of neo-institutionalism in political science - The logic of comparison: most similar and most different design - Classifying states: democracy, federalism, ... 4. Teaching method Direct contact: Exercise sessions Personal work: Exercises Assignments - individual 5. Assessment method Continuous assessment: Exercises Written assignment: Without oral presentation Presentation 6. Compulsory reading – study material A reader will be made available for the students 7. Recommended reading - study material Nihil. 8. Tutoring After class and by appointment. laatste aanpassing: last update: 18/11/2009 10:41 sonja.vos