Summer 2020 - IS 309 D100
Special Topics in International Security and Conflict (4)
Class Number: 4487
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
May 11 – Aug 10, 2020: Mon, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Carla Suarez
csa118@sfu.ca
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Prerequisites:
45 units.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Specific details of courses to be offered will be published prior to enrollment each term.
COURSE DETAILS:
This course focuses on the politics that shape daily life in armed conflict settings. We begin by exploring the theoretical lens and frames used to explain the causes of violence. How has the nature of armed conflicts changed? What are the different “frames” used to understand war and what are the implications of these? The second section examines the underlying processes and dynamics that influence the outcomes of civil wars. How do rebel groups organize themselves and why do they use different violent strategies? How do rebel groups “govern” civilians and how do civilians respond to these arrangements? The third section analyses the political economy of international interventions in conflict-settings. What are the major policies used by the international community and how have these shaped the behaviour of rebel groups and civilians? How was the gendered dimension of war influenced policy responses? We conclude by considering some of the ethical dilemmas and challenges that researchers encounter when working in conflict-affected contexts. How do you negotiate access to the “field”? How do you build trust with participants? What are the different security factors that must be taken into consideration?
COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
By the end of the course, students will have a strong understanding of the contemporary of armed conflict dynamics, its main actors, and dominant international responses.
Grading
- Class participation 20%
- Class presentation 25%
- Personal reflection 20%
- Research paper 35%
NOTES:
Students will be required to submit their written assignments to Turnitin.com in order to receive credit for the assignments and for the course.
The School for International Studies strictly enforces the University's policies regarding plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty. Information about these policies can be found at: http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/teaching.html.
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
All required texts will be made available via Canvas.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.
Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html
TEACHING AT SFU IN SUMMER 2020
Please note that all teaching at SFU in summer term 2020 will be conducted through remote methods. Enrollment in this course acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.