The course gives an introduction to Development Studies as an interdisciplinary and problem oriented study of social, political, economic and environmental dimensions of societal change. The emphasis is on development theory and policy, which is linked to practice through case studies.

Learning outcomes:

• Knowledge:
  • Knowledge about the major themes within development theory and policy
  • Knowledge about important topics within development theory and policy in practice, and the link between theory and empirical example
• Skills:
  • Strengthen skills using theories and concepts in critical discussion and analysis of development policy issues.
  • Working in interdisciplinary teams
  • Searching, managing and sharing information
  • Computing inequality indicators
  • Presenting and debating themes in development policy
  • Writing as a means of learning
• General knowledge:
  • Awareness of values and normative approaches in development including considering cultural diversity and human rights.

The course coordinator and teachers are responsible for literature, implementation and guidance on group and individual assignments participants will receive oral or written feedback on group presentations and on their individual writing (once). Teachers will give lectures and provide additional guidance within their subject area upon appointment, and will make valuable use of their own research to give the students deeper insights into special topics of interest.

The NMBU Library staff will assist with information search and management. Guest lecturers will address special topics. Students are also encouraged to use the NMBU Writing Centre to help with writing assignments.