Students
POL 833 – Intergovernmental Relations
2016 – S1 External
General Information
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| Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Unit Convenor
Ian Tregenza
W6A 429
TBA
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| Credit points |
Credit points
4
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| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
Admission to MPPP or PGDipPP or PGCertPP or MPASR or PGCertPASR or PGDipPASR or GradDipPASR or GradCertPP or GradDipPP or MIntLawGovPP
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| Corequisites |
Corequisites
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| Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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| Unit description |
Unit description
Intergovernmental relations present challenges and opportunities for policy makers, and these have intensified as a result of globalisation. This unit will look at the techniques used to overcome the difficulties of intergovernmental relations, and the legal and political issues which arise from divided and shared sovereignty. The unit considers recent developments in federal theory, and presents a comparative study of different models of federalism, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. The unit considers Australian federalism in detail, using case studies, and examining constitutional and fiscal aspects of federalism, the changing balance of power between the state and federal levels of government.
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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:
- Explain and critically analyse the ways in which intergovernmental relations have impacted on policy making capacity at the global, national, subnational and local level.
- Identify and critically analyse classical and modern theories of federalism, and their application to the Australian political context, and to other federal systems around the world.
- Identify, explain and critically evaluate the mechanisms used to encourage coordination and cooperation in intergovernmental relations, identifying their strengths and weaknesses.
- Identify, critically analyse and discuss the major debates and controversies involved in this subject, including debate around globalisation and the state, intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, states’ rights, proposals for the reform of the Australian federal system, fiscal federalism, and the role of the High Court in shaping federalism through interpretation of the Constitution.
- Locate, analyse and synthesise different kinds of evidence about intergovernmental relations, federalism and public policy, from a range of sources.
- Communicate research findings and recommendations effectively to a range of audiences
General Assessment Information
Submitting your work
You will need to upload each assessment task as a Word document using the Turnitin Assignments facility on the iLearn website. This facility includes software which scans the uploaded assignments for plagiarism. Follow the instructions on the screen carefully. Your essay should be uploaded before midnight on the due date.
In all cases, you should ensure that you keep a copy of the assignment.
Extensions will only be granted in exceptional circumstances, and will require documentary evidence such as a medical certificate to support the request for an extension. You should contact the convenor as early as possible if you think you may need an extension.
Penalties for late submission: Assignments which are submitted after the due date, without having an extension granted by the convenor, will be penalised, by 3 marks a day for each day after the due date. Any paper submitted more than 3 weeks after the due date will not be marked, and the student will be failed for the assignment
Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Due |
|---|---|---|
| Documentary Analysis | 30% | Friday 8 April |
| Comparative Analysis | 30% | Monday 9 May |
| Research Essay | 40% | Friday 10 June |
Documentary Analysis
Due: Friday 8 April
Weighting: 30%
A documentary analysis of 2000 words which will compare and contrast classical and modern theories of federalism. Further information, including the set texts, is available on iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Identify and critically analyse classical and modern theories of federalism, and their application to the Australian political context, and to other federal systems around the world.
- Identify, critically analyse and discuss the major debates and controversies involved in this subject, including debate around globalisation and the state, intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, states’ rights, proposals for the reform of the Australian federal system, fiscal federalism, and the role of the High Court in shaping federalism through interpretation of the Constitution.
- Communicate research findings and recommendations effectively to a range of audiences
Comparative Analysis
Due: Monday 9 May
Weighting: 30%
For this assessment task you will be asked to critically compare and contrast one other federal system with the Australian system. Using this comparison, you will make recommendations about potential reform to the Australian federal system, in a report of 2000 words. Further details are provided on iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Explain and critically analyse the ways in which intergovernmental relations have impacted on policy making capacity at the global, national, subnational and local level.
- Identify and critically analyse classical and modern theories of federalism, and their application to the Australian political context, and to other federal systems around the world.
- Identify, explain and critically evaluate the mechanisms used to encourage coordination and cooperation in intergovernmental relations, identifying their strengths and weaknesses.
- Identify, critically analyse and discuss the major debates and controversies involved in this subject, including debate around globalisation and the state, intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, states’ rights, proposals for the reform of the Australian federal system, fiscal federalism, and the role of the High Court in shaping federalism through interpretation of the Constitution.
- Locate, analyse and synthesise different kinds of evidence about intergovernmental relations, federalism and public policy, from a range of sources.
- Communicate research findings and recommendations effectively to a range of audiences
Research Essay
Due: Friday 10 June
Weighting: 40%
A research essay of 3000 words, answering one of the selection of essay questions posted on iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Explain and critically analyse the ways in which intergovernmental relations have impacted on policy making capacity at the global, national, subnational and local level.
- Identify, explain and critically evaluate the mechanisms used to encourage coordination and cooperation in intergovernmental relations, identifying their strengths and weaknesses.
- Identify, critically analyse and discuss the major debates and controversies involved in this subject, including debate around globalisation and the state, intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, states’ rights, proposals for the reform of the Australian federal system, fiscal federalism, and the role of the High Court in shaping federalism through interpretation of the Constitution.
- Locate, analyse and synthesise different kinds of evidence about intergovernmental relations, federalism and public policy, from a range of sources.
- Communicate research findings and recommendations effectively to a range of audiences
Delivery and Resources
This unit has a unit webpage which is accessible only to currently enrolled students. Online units can be accessed at: http://ilearn.mq.edu.au
Required readings will be provided via e-Reserve on the library database. Links to the readings are posted on iLearn.
Classes
For lecture times and classrooms please consult the MQ Timetable website: http://www.timetables.mq.edu.au. This website will display up-to-date information on your classes and classroom locations.
Internal students are expected to attend the following classes every second week (commencing in week 1):
- Lecture: Wednesday 6-7pm
- Seminar: Wednesday 7-9pm
This means that the following weeks will have classes: 1 (week commencing 29 Feb), 3 (14 March), 5 (28 March), 8 (2 May), 10 (16 May), 12 (30 May).
Every other week a lecture will be recorded and placed on ilearn.
External students: All lectures are digitally recorded and can be downloaded from the iLearn website shortly after they are delivered. You will also find lecture slides on the website.
External students are also required to attend two on-campus sessions of four hours each over the semester. The dates for these sessions are:
- Sunday 3 April, 2-6pm
- Sunday 5 June, 2-6pm
External students are encouraged to attend regular lectures and seminar classes whenever they can.
Attendance
University regulations prescribe regular attendance at classes. Students are expected to attend all lectures and seminars, or on-campus sessions for external students.
For internal students, failure to attend at least three-quarters of seminars risks exclusion from and no credit for the unit.
For external students, failure to attend the first on-campus session will risk exclusion from and no credit for the unit.
If you are unable to attend a class, you should provide documentary support for your absence (eg medical certificate). If you know that you will be unable to attend a class, or on-campus session, you should contact the convenor as early as possible.
Unit Schedule
The weekly schedule of topics is available on ilearn.
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
New Assessment Policy in effect from Session 2 2016 http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy_2016.html. For more information visit http://students.mq.edu.au/events/2016/07/19/new_assessment_policy_in_place_from_session_2/
Assessment Policy prior to Session 2 2016 http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy.html
Grading Policy prior to Session 2 2016 http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grading/policy.html
Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html
Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/complaint_management/procedure.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/
Results
Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.
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://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
Graduate Capabilities
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
- Identify, explain and critically evaluate the mechanisms used to encourage coordination and cooperation in intergovernmental relations, identifying their strengths and weaknesses.
- Communicate research findings and recommendations effectively to a range of audiences
Assessment task
- Comparative Analysis
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
- Explain and critically analyse the ways in which intergovernmental relations have impacted on policy making capacity at the global, national, subnational and local level.
- Identify and critically analyse classical and modern theories of federalism, and their application to the Australian political context, and to other federal systems around the world.
- Identify, explain and critically evaluate the mechanisms used to encourage coordination and cooperation in intergovernmental relations, identifying their strengths and weaknesses.
- Identify, critically analyse and discuss the major debates and controversies involved in this subject, including debate around globalisation and the state, intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, states’ rights, proposals for the reform of the Australian federal system, fiscal federalism, and the role of the High Court in shaping federalism through interpretation of the Constitution.
- Locate, analyse and synthesise different kinds of evidence about intergovernmental relations, federalism and public policy, from a range of sources.
Assessment tasks
- Documentary Analysis
- Comparative Analysis
- 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
- Explain and critically analyse the ways in which intergovernmental relations have impacted on policy making capacity at the global, national, subnational and local level.
- Identify and critically analyse classical and modern theories of federalism, and their application to the Australian political context, and to other federal systems around the world.
- Identify, explain and critically evaluate the mechanisms used to encourage coordination and cooperation in intergovernmental relations, identifying their strengths and weaknesses.
- Identify, critically analyse and discuss the major debates and controversies involved in this subject, including debate around globalisation and the state, intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, states’ rights, proposals for the reform of the Australian federal system, fiscal federalism, and the role of the High Court in shaping federalism through interpretation of the Constitution.
- Locate, analyse and synthesise different kinds of evidence about intergovernmental relations, federalism and public policy, from a range of sources.
Assessment tasks
- Documentary Analysis
- Comparative Analysis
- Research Essay
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
- Identify and critically analyse classical and modern theories of federalism, and their application to the Australian political context, and to other federal systems around the world.
- Identify, explain and critically evaluate the mechanisms used to encourage coordination and cooperation in intergovernmental relations, identifying their strengths and weaknesses.
- Identify, critically analyse and discuss the major debates and controversies involved in this subject, including debate around globalisation and the state, intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, states’ rights, proposals for the reform of the Australian federal system, fiscal federalism, and the role of the High Court in shaping federalism through interpretation of the Constitution.
- Locate, analyse and synthesise different kinds of evidence about intergovernmental relations, federalism and public policy, from a range of sources.
Assessment tasks
- Comparative Analysis
- Research Essay
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
- Identify, explain and critically evaluate the mechanisms used to encourage coordination and cooperation in intergovernmental relations, identifying their strengths and weaknesses.
- Identify, critically analyse and discuss the major debates and controversies involved in this subject, including debate around globalisation and the state, intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, states’ rights, proposals for the reform of the Australian federal system, fiscal federalism, and the role of the High Court in shaping federalism through interpretation of the Constitution.
- Communicate research findings and recommendations effectively to a range of audiences
Assessment tasks
- Documentary Analysis
- Comparative Analysis
- Research Essay
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 outcomes
- Identify, critically analyse and discuss the major debates and controversies involved in this subject, including debate around globalisation and the state, intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, states’ rights, proposals for the reform of the Australian federal system, fiscal federalism, and the role of the High Court in shaping federalism through interpretation of the Constitution.
- Communicate research findings and recommendations effectively to a range of audiences
Assessment task
- Comparative Analysis