Course code EDS389

EDS389 Ruling the world by numbers: knowledge and politics in international development

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Showing course contents for the educational year 2017 - 2018 .

Course responsible: Morten Jerven
ECTS credits: 10
Faculty: Faculty of Landscape and Society
Teaching language: EN
(NO=norsk, EN=Engelsk)
Teaching exam periods:
Spring.
Course frequency: <p>Biannually, cancelled spring 2018!</p><p>Next time August 2018. </p>
First time: Study year 2016-2017
Last time: 2018V
Preferential right:
M-IR
Course contents:

The use of numbers, performance indicators and benchmarks have grown exponentially over the last two decades, particularly in the field of international politics and development. Indicators are now firmly established as a distinct mode of global governance. The process of numbering involves translating complex phenomena into numerical values. The procedure converts what might otherwise be highly contentious normative agendas into numbers that appear technocratic and objective. The politics of numbers has implications for global governance, and particularly so for making norms, rules and regulations in the fields of International Environment and Development Studies. This course provides a critical examination of the implications of ruling the world as if it counts.

NB! Next time in August 2018.

Learning outcome:
To be updated
Learning activities:
Lectures and seminars
Teaching support:
Office hours and procedures are established at the first class meeting. A course schedule is handed out at the same time
Syllabus:
See reading list in Canvas. 
Prerequisites:
Relevant Bachelor degree or equivalent.
Recommended prerequisites:
Mandatory activity:
Participation in lectures and seminars.
Assessment:
One term paper ( 5 pages) counts 30% and final written exam counts 70% of final grade. Exam and term papers must be written in English
Nominal workload:
Total 150 hours. 
Entrance requirements:
Relevant Bachelor degree or equivalent.
Type of course:
6 lectures and 6 seminars.
Examiner:
Examination details: :