SP200
Comparative and International Social Policy
This information is for the 2020/21 session.
Teacher responsible
Dr Timo Fleckenstein OLD.2.60
Availability
This course is compulsory on the BSc in International Social and Public Policy, BSc in International Social and Public Policy and Economics and BSc in International Social and Public Policy with Politics. This course is not available as an outside option nor to General Course students.
Pre-requisites
This course is only available to students who have completed Understanding International Social and Public Policy (SP100).
Course content
The course introduces the comparative method in social policy research as well as the main analytical approaches to understanding social policy developments. It provides an overview of social policies in different areas of the world and enables students to identify global pressures on national policy environments.
The course also examines the impact of key international and supranational institutions on social policy-making. It investigates the welfare and work nexus from a comparative perspective.
Teaching
10 hours of lectures and 13 hours and 30 minutes of classes in the MT. 10 hours of lectures and 15 hours of classes in the LT. 1 hour of classes in the ST.
Formative coursework
Students are expected to submit three pieces of formative written work throughout the academic year and are expected to read for and prepare contributions to class discussion each week.
Indicative reading
K Armingeon & G Bonoli (Eds), The Politics of Post-Industrial Welfare States (2006)
F Castles, The Future of the Welfare State (2004)
J Clasen, Reforming European Welfare States (2004)
B Deacon, Global Social Policy and Governance (2007)
I Gough & G Wood (Eds), Insecurity and Welfare Regimes in Asia, Africa and Latin America (2004)
L Hantrais, Social Policy in the European Union (2007)
J Lewis, Work-Family Balance, Gender and Policy (2009)
P Taylor-Gooby (Ed), New Risks, New Welfare (2005).
Assessment
Coursework (100%) in the ST.
Important information in response to COVID-19
Please note that during 2020/21 academic year some variation to teaching and learning activities may be required to respond to changes in public health advice and/or to account for the situation of students in attendance on campus and those studying online during the early part of the academic year. For assessment, this may involve changes to mode of delivery and/or the format or weighting of assessments. Changes will only be made if required and students will be notified about any changes to teaching or assessment plans at the earliest opportunity.
Key facts
Department: Social Policy
Total students 2019/20: 45
Average class size 2019/20: 16
Capped 2019/20: Yes (45)
Value: One Unit
