Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Diplomats are the instruments through whom states communicate and attempt to adjust their relations; diplomacy is the skill (or art) and techniques used in this endeavour. The practice of diplomacy is thus of considerable importance for the modern world and this module seeks to understand its practice. The tutorials concentrate on analysing the role of diplomats in the making and execution of foreign policy, examining at the evolution of diplomacy over the last century and the major challenges that face it in the twenty-first century. Those who are considering a career requiring diplomatic skills will be able to develop a deeper understanding of the field. It will also interest those interested in learning more about how states communicate with each other.
Aims
This module integrates the history, theory and practice of diplomacy with the aim of enabling students to explain and evaluate the practice of diplomacy, based on analysis of cases from the diplomatic services of multiple countries.
Talis Aspire Reading ListAny reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/pir-30153/lists
Intended Learning Outcomes
Critically evaluate key issues in the study of diplomacy: 1,2,3Offer informed analysis of the challenges of diplomacy in practice: 1,2,3Analyse theories of diplomacy and apply them to cases: 1,2,3Communicate their own arguments effectively and clearly: 1,2,3
20 hours tutorials130 hours of independent study including seminar preparation, foreign policy memo, and negotiation.
Description of Module Assessment
1: Report weighted 50%Foreign Policy Cable On the student¿s choice of one of several contemporary diplomatic challenges provided, students take the role of an embassy officer writing a briefing paper addressed to their government in which they interpret the position policy of their host country regarding the scenario and recommend a diplomatic course of action. The length of this cable is 1500 words.
2: Group Project weighted 25% Simulated NegotiationOn a case study provided, and in small groups of 3-4, students prepare a negotiation brief (1000-1500 words, formative), and then engage in a simulated negotiation, in which they are assessed in their groups by the tutor (25% of module mark).
3: Reflective Analysis weighted 25%An individual reflective analysisStudents write an individual reflective piece on their participation in the simulated negotiation, linking their experience to theories of negotiation and diplomacy (1200 words, 25% of module mark).