Students
PICT851 – Security II
2014 – S2 Evening
General Information
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| Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Unit Convenor
John Hardy
Contact via john.hardy@mq.edu.au
Julian Droogan
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|---|---|
| Credit points |
Credit points
4
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| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
Admission to MPICT or PGDipPICT or PGCertPICT or MPICTMIntSecSt or MIntSecStud or PGDipIntSecStud or PGCertIntSecStud
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| Corequisites |
Corequisites
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| Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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| Unit description |
Unit description
This unit is the foundation units for students undertaking studies in international security studies. The unit introduces students to key concepts in the major areas of study. The content of this unit focuses on an 'all hazards' approach to identifying prospective threats to national security. The principal focus will be the consideration of the diverse issues that constitute actual and potential threats to the nation's security, and the risk assessment process. This unit also establishes the academic standards required for studying in this area at a postgraduate level; provides guidance for students to develop postgraduate level skills in critical thinking; and challenges students to apply these skills to complex concepts and issues.
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Important Academic Dates
Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate a sound appreciation of the different aspects that comprise security in a liberal democracy
- Comprehensively explain a range of contemporary and dynamic issues that can impact on security in Australia, the region and the globe
- Critically evaluate the role of the academic discipline of international security studies in contributing to a secure environment
- Model academic research skills, particularly the ability to select sources appropriately, to integrate knowledge from diverse sources, to critically evaluate its significance and relevance, synthesise material and present findings logically and rationally
- Demonstrate higher order communication skills including the ability to present sustained, persuasive & original written arguments cogently & coherently
Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Due |
|---|---|---|
| Abstract | 10% | 29/08/2014 |
| Issue Paper | 20% | 19/09/2014 |
| Research Essay | 50% | 24/10/2014 |
| Reflective Journal | 20% | 14/11/2014 |
Abstract
Due: 29/08/2014
Weighting: 10%
The essay abstract is a brief explanation of the argument you intend to make in your research essay. It should be broad in scope and not discuss the details of specific points. It should also be clear about how you want to answer the question and the line of reasoning and argument you will use to support your answer.
More information is available to enrolled students via iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Demonstrate a sound appreciation of the different aspects that comprise security in a liberal democracy
- Comprehensively explain a range of contemporary and dynamic issues that can impact on security in Australia, the region and the globe
- Critically evaluate the role of the academic discipline of international security studies in contributing to a secure environment
- Model academic research skills, particularly the ability to select sources appropriately, to integrate knowledge from diverse sources, to critically evaluate its significance and relevance, synthesise material and present findings logically and rationally
- Demonstrate higher order communication skills including the ability to present sustained, persuasive & original written arguments cogently & coherently
Issue Paper
Due: 19/09/2014
Weighting: 20%
The issue paper is a short brief on a specific issue chosen from a list. The topics are controversial international security issues and are subject to wide debate in both scholarly literature and the media. The purpose of the issue paper is to a give a brief overview of the situation and make some recommendations about how a reader can approach the issue in an informed way.
More information is available to enrolled students via iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Comprehensively explain a range of contemporary and dynamic issues that can impact on security in Australia, the region and the globe
- Critically evaluate the role of the academic discipline of international security studies in contributing to a secure environment
- Model academic research skills, particularly the ability to select sources appropriately, to integrate knowledge from diverse sources, to critically evaluate its significance and relevance, synthesise material and present findings logically and rationally
- Demonstrate higher order communication skills including the ability to present sustained, persuasive & original written arguments cogently & coherently
Research Essay
Due: 24/10/2014
Weighting: 50%
The research essay is a 3,000 word paper on a set topic related to international security.
More information is available to enrolled students via iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Demonstrate a sound appreciation of the different aspects that comprise security in a liberal democracy
- Comprehensively explain a range of contemporary and dynamic issues that can impact on security in Australia, the region and the globe
- Critically evaluate the role of the academic discipline of international security studies in contributing to a secure environment
- Model academic research skills, particularly the ability to select sources appropriately, to integrate knowledge from diverse sources, to critically evaluate its significance and relevance, synthesise material and present findings logically and rationally
- Demonstrate higher order communication skills including the ability to present sustained, persuasive & original written arguments cogently & coherently
Reflective Journal
Due: 14/11/2014
Weighting: 20%
The reflective journal is a critical analysis task aimed at your own learning processes and outcomes throughout the unit. It gives you an opportunity to reflect on your own learning and analyse the importance you placed on certain themes, topics or issues vis-à-vis others in the unit.
More information is available to enrolled students via iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Demonstrate a sound appreciation of the different aspects that comprise security in a liberal democracy
- Comprehensively explain a range of contemporary and dynamic issues that can impact on security in Australia, the region and the globe
- Model academic research skills, particularly the ability to select sources appropriately, to integrate knowledge from diverse sources, to critically evaluate its significance and relevance, synthesise material and present findings logically and rationally
- Demonstrate higher order communication skills including the ability to present sustained, persuasive & original written arguments cogently & coherently
Delivery and Resources
Expectations for Completing this Unit
To successfully complete this unit students will have to attempt all assessment tasks. These are:
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One 600 word abstract
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One 1200 word issue paper
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One 3000 word research essay
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One 1200 word reflective journal
In addition, students are expected to read the weekly required readings and engage in additional outside research.
Readings
The required readings as well as a list of additional and useful readings for this Unit are available to all enrolled students through the Unit iLearn site and Macquarie University Library's EReserve site.
Technological Requirements
Online units can be accessed at: http://ilearn.mq.edu.au
Reliable PC and Internet access are required. Basic computer skills such as internet browsing and skills in word processing are also a requirement.
Assignments in this unit will be submitted, marked and returned electronically. For further information see the iLearn site
Please consult teaching staff for any further, more specific requirements.
Late Submission Penalty
If an assignment is submitted late, 5% of the available mark will be deducted for each day (or part thereof) that the paper is late.
For example, if the paper is worth 20 marks, 1.00 mark per day will be deducted from the mark given (i.e. A student given 15/20 who submitted 4 days late will lose 4 x 1.00 marks: 15/20 – 4 marks = 11/20).
The same principle applies if an extension is granted and the assignment is submitted later than the amended date.
Unit Schedule
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Week 1 |
Introduction & History of Security Studies
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Week 2 |
Academic Literacy I: Critical Theory
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Week 3 |
Academic Literacy II: Research Review
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Week 4 |
Changing Perspectives in International Security
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Week 5 |
Critical Issues in International Security
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Week 6 |
International Security Law
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Week 7 |
Globalisation and Security
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Week 8 |
Insurgency and Non-State Security Challenges
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Week 9 |
Border Security and Migration
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Week 10 |
Humanitarian Intervention and Peacekeeping
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Week 11 |
Economic and Resource Security
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Week 12 |
Asia Pacific Security
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Week 13 |
Review and Conclusion
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Policies and Procedures
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
Academic Honesty Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html
Assessment Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy.html
Grading Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grading/policy.html
Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html
Grievance Management Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grievance_management/policy.html
Disruption to Studies Policy http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/disruption_studies/policy.html The Disruption to Studies Policy is effective from March 3 2014 and replaces the Special Consideration Policy.
In addition, a number of other policies can be found in the Learning and Teaching Category of Policy Central.
Student Code of Conduct
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/support/student_conduct/
Student Support
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
Learning Skills
Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.
Student Services and Support
Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.
Student Enquiries
For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au
IT Help
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://informatics.mq.edu.au/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
Graduate Capabilities
PG - Discipline Knowledge and Skills
Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate a sound appreciation of the different aspects that comprise security in a liberal democracy
- Comprehensively explain a range of contemporary and dynamic issues that can impact on security in Australia, the region and the globe
- Critically evaluate the role of the academic discipline of international security studies in contributing to a secure environment
- Model academic research skills, particularly the ability to select sources appropriately, to integrate knowledge from diverse sources, to critically evaluate its significance and relevance, synthesise material and present findings logically and rationally
- Demonstrate higher order communication skills including the ability to present sustained, persuasive & original written arguments cogently & coherently
Assessment tasks
- Abstract
- Issue Paper
- Research Essay
PG - Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking
Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate a sound appreciation of the different aspects that comprise security in a liberal democracy
- Comprehensively explain a range of contemporary and dynamic issues that can impact on security in Australia, the region and the globe
- Critically evaluate the role of the academic discipline of international security studies in contributing to a secure environment
- Model academic research skills, particularly the ability to select sources appropriately, to integrate knowledge from diverse sources, to critically evaluate its significance and relevance, synthesise material and present findings logically and rationally
- Demonstrate higher order communication skills including the ability to present sustained, persuasive & original written arguments cogently & coherently
Assessment tasks
- Abstract
- Issue Paper
- Research Essay
- Reflective Journal
PG - Research and Problem Solving Capability
Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate a sound appreciation of the different aspects that comprise security in a liberal democracy
- Critically evaluate the role of the academic discipline of international security studies in contributing to a secure environment
- Model academic research skills, particularly the ability to select sources appropriately, to integrate knowledge from diverse sources, to critically evaluate its significance and relevance, synthesise material and present findings logically and rationally
- Demonstrate higher order communication skills including the ability to present sustained, persuasive & original written arguments cogently & coherently
Assessment tasks
- Issue Paper
- Research Essay
- Reflective Journal
PG - Effective Communication
Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate a sound appreciation of the different aspects that comprise security in a liberal democracy
- Comprehensively explain a range of contemporary and dynamic issues that can impact on security in Australia, the region and the globe
- Model academic research skills, particularly the ability to select sources appropriately, to integrate knowledge from diverse sources, to critically evaluate its significance and relevance, synthesise material and present findings logically and rationally
- Demonstrate higher order communication skills including the ability to present sustained, persuasive & original written arguments cogently & coherently
Assessment tasks
- Abstract
- Issue Paper
- Research Essay
- Reflective Journal
PG - Engaged and Responsible, Active and Ethical Citizens
Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcome
- Demonstrate a sound appreciation of the different aspects that comprise security in a liberal democracy
Assessment tasks
- Issue Paper
- Reflective Journal
PG - Capable of Professional and Personal Judgment and Initiative
Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate a sound appreciation of the different aspects that comprise security in a liberal democracy
- Comprehensively explain a range of contemporary and dynamic issues that can impact on security in Australia, the region and the globe
- Critically evaluate the role of the academic discipline of international security studies in contributing to a secure environment
- Model academic research skills, particularly the ability to select sources appropriately, to integrate knowledge from diverse sources, to critically evaluate its significance and relevance, synthesise material and present findings logically and rationally
- Demonstrate higher order communication skills including the ability to present sustained, persuasive & original written arguments cogently & coherently
Assessment tasks
- Abstract
- Issue Paper
- Research Essay
- Reflective Journal
Changes since First Published
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
| 05/02/2014 | The Prerequisites was updated. |