Political parties and elections

Academic year: 2010-2011 Course code module 1MIPO_311 Semester: 2nd semester Credits: 6 Study load (hours) 168 Theory (hours): 30,00 Practice/Exercises(hours): 15,00 Other (hours): Part-time program: 1/2 Instructor(s) Kris Deschouwer Language of instruction: English Semester exam information: exam in the 1st semester Contract restriction information: 1. Prerequisites *Algemene competenties A general introduction to political science is required, as well as a good knowledge of research methods. *Sequentiality None 2. Objectives (expected learning outcomes) Political parties play a major role in modern political systems. They are both at the centre of political representation and of political decision making. In this course we analyze both roles of parties. We look at their origins, their organization and strategies, electoral campaigns and voting behaviour, electoral systems, parties in government, parties in the Europeaan Union. 3. Course content 1. Origins and historical evolution of parties 2. Electoral systems and campaigns 3. Voting behaviour and party systems 4. Parties in government (coalition formation) 5. Parties beyond the state: regions and the EU 6. Political parties in modern democracies 4. Teaching method Direct contact: Lectures 5. Assessment method Exam: Written, without oral presentation 6. Compulsory reading – study material A reader with scientific articles and chapters will be made available via Pointcarré (VUB) 7. Recommended reading - study material Nihil. 8. Tutoring After class and by appointment. laatste aanpassing: last update: 18/11/2009 10:33 sonja.vos