INU3131 : Global Perspectives
INU3131 : Global Perspectives
- Offered for Year: 2025/26
- Module Leader(s): Dr Michael Cheng
- Co-Module Leader: Mr Neil Hurst, Mr Steven Dye, Mr Thomas Cosh
- Owning School: INTO Newcastle University
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 10 |
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 10 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
None
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
None
Aims
This module is designed to introduce students to current global issues. Awareness of the key challenges the world faces is considered essential if international students are to identify the interdisciplinary references to these issues which they will inevitably come across in their studies. The module will consider topics such as Politics, Economics, and International Relations.
The specific aims of the module are:
• To provide an introduction to the key global perspectives to enable students to undertake HE study in the United Kingdom.
• To encourage students to think critically about global issues and current affairs.
• To develop students' ability to critically analyse the relationship between politics, economics, and international relations.
Outline Of Syllabus
- The Global Political Economy: Structures and Dynamics
- International Trade and Development
- Geopolitics and International Security
- Power, Influence, and Soft Power in International Relations
- Global Economic Crises and Political Responses
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
- To analyse the processes of globalisation, including its economic, political, and cultural impacts, and critically evaluate its role in shaping global inequalities and governance.
- To apply key political and economic theories to current global challenges, including trade relations and international security.
- To assess the effectiveness and limitations of political-economic policies in addressing global challenges such as development, inequality and climate change.
- To examine the structures of the global political economy, including international trade systems, the role of multinational corporations, and the influence of financial institutions (e.g. IMF, World Bank) on global governance.
Intended Skill Outcomes
- To critically assess and evaluate using an interdisciplinary approach to global issues and current affairs.
- To evaluate the role and effectiveness of international institutions (e.g. UN, WTO, ICC) in managing global issues.
- To develop advanced research skills, including the ability to conduct independent research on global political-economic issues, critically engage with academic literature, and present evidence-based arguments.
- To develop strong communication skills to engage in informed debates, write analytically and persuasively, and present research findings effectively.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 10:00 | 10:00 | Formative assessment preparation and practice |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | Lectures |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 50:00 | 50:00 | Preparation and independent research conducted for the case study report. |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 30:00 | 30:00 | Preparation for A1: MCQ and short answer questions |
| Guided Independent Study | Directed research and reading | 1 | 44:00 | 44:00 | Specified and signposted in the lecture and seminars. |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 44 | 1:00 | 44:00 | Seminars |
| Total | 200:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
Lectures are used to introduce material to students, whereas seminars are more participative and will involve discussion and allow more scope for skills development.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | 60 | 1 | A | 30 | MCQs and short answer questions. |
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Case study | 2 | M | 70 | 1,500 - 2,000 words. |
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.
| Description | Semester | When Set | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer assessment | 1 | M | Canvas quizzes - MCQs |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The assessment will consist of an MCQ and short answer questions exam in Semester 1 for students to develop important skills and subject knowledge through unseen examination questions. In Semester 2 there will be a Case Study report. This assessment will provide an opportunity for students to critically asses the effectiveness of an international institution and its ability to manage issues on a global stage.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- INU3131's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- INU3131's past Exam Papers
General Notes
Original Handbook text:
Welcome to Newcastle University Module Catalogue
This is where you will be able to find all key information about modules on your programme of study. It will help you make an informed decision on the options available to you within your programme.
You may have some queries about the modules available to you. Your school office will be able to signpost you to someone who will support you with any queries.
Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2025 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, staffing changes, and student feedback. Module information for the 2026/27 entry will be published here in early-April 2026. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.