Students
POL 833 – Intergovernmental Relations
2018 – S1 External
General Information
Download as PDF
| Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Unit Convenor
Francesco Stolfi
Hearing Hub, Level 2, South Wing
Wednesdays 5-6 or by appointment
|
|---|---|
| Credit points |
Credit points
4
|
| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
Admission to MPPP or MPASR or GradDipPASR or GradCertPP or GradDipPP or MIntLawGovPP or MPPPMDevStud or MPASRMDevStud or MPPPMPASR or MPPPMIntRel
|
| Corequisites |
Corequisites
|
| Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
|
| 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 political issues which arise from divided and shared sovereignty. The unit considers recent developments in federal theory, including fiscal federalism, and presents a comparative study of different models of federalism, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses in different international settings.
|
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 affect policy making.
- 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 issues such as intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, and fiscal
- 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
- Master the literature on federalism and intergovernmental relations
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.
Unless a Special Consideration request has been submitted and approved, (a) a penalty for lateness will apply – two (2) marks out of 100 will be deducted per day for assignments submitted after the due date – and (b) no assignment will be accepted more than seven (7) days (incl. weekends) after the original submission deadline. No late submissions will be accepted for timed assessments – e.g. quizzes, online tests.
Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Hurdle | Due |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essay 1: Documentary Analysis | 20% | No | March 25 |
| Essay 2: Documentary Analysis | 20% | No | May 6 |
| Essay 3: Comparative Analysis | 30% | No | June 17 |
| Active Participation | 10% | No | Weekly |
| Quizzes | 20% | No | Weekly |
Essay 1: Documentary Analysis
Due: March 25
Weighting: 20%
A documentary analysis of 2000 words which will apply classicaltheories of federalism. Further information, including the set texts, is available on iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Explain and critically analyse the ways in which intergovernmental relations affect policy making.
- 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 issues such as intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, and fiscal
- 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
Essay 2: Documentary Analysis
Due: May 6
Weighting: 20%
A documentary analysis of 2000 words which will apply modern theories of federalism. Further information, including the set texts, is available on iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Explain and critically analyse the ways in which intergovernmental relations affect policy making.
- 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 issues such as intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, and fiscal
- 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
Essay 3: Comparative Analysis
Due: June 17
Weighting: 30%
An essay of 3000 words that critically compares and contrasts two federal systems (one of which can but does not have to be Australia).
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Explain and critically analyse the ways in which intergovernmental relations affect policy making.
- 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 issues such as intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, and fiscal
- 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
Active Participation
Due: Weekly
Weighting: 10%
Marks are for "participating" not merely attending. That is, you should regularly contribute your opinions and ideas based on your understanding of the readings.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Explain and critically analyse the ways in which intergovernmental relations affect policy making.
- 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 issues such as intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, and fiscal
- Communicate research findings and recommendations effectively to a range of audiences
Quizzes
Due: Weekly
Weighting: 20%
Weekly quizzes on the required readings (in class for internal students, at home for external students)
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Master the literature on federalism and intergovernmental relations
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.
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.
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.
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 (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
- Academic Appeals Policy
- Academic Integrity Policy
- Academic Progression Policy
- Assessment Policy
- Fitness to Practice Procedure
- Grade Appeal Policy
- Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
- Special Consideration Policy (Note: The Special Consideration Policy is effective from 4 December 2017 and replaces the Disruption to Studies Policy.)
Undergraduate students seeking more policy resources can visit the Student Policy Gateway (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/student-policy-gateway). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.
If you would like to see all the policies relevant to Learning and Teaching visit Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/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/study/getting-started/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 tasks
- Essay 2: Documentary Analysis
- Active Participation
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 affect policy making.
- 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 issues such as intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, and fiscal
- Locate, analyse and synthesise different kinds of evidence about intergovernmental relations, federalism and public policy, from a range of sources.
- Master the literature on federalism and intergovernmental relations
Assessment tasks
- Essay 1: Documentary Analysis
- Essay 2: Documentary Analysis
- Essay 3: Comparative Analysis
- Active Participation
- Quizzes
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 affect policy making.
- 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 issues such as intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, and fiscal
- Locate, analyse and synthesise different kinds of evidence about intergovernmental relations, federalism and public policy, from a range of sources.
Assessment tasks
- Essay 1: Documentary Analysis
- Essay 2: Documentary Analysis
- Essay 3: Comparative Analysis
- Active Participation
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 issues such as intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, and fiscal
- Locate, analyse and synthesise different kinds of evidence about intergovernmental relations, federalism and public policy, from a range of sources.
Assessment tasks
- Essay 2: Documentary Analysis
- Essay 3: Comparative Analysis
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 issues such as intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, and fiscal
- Communicate research findings and recommendations effectively to a range of audiences
Assessment tasks
- Essay 1: Documentary Analysis
- Essay 2: Documentary Analysis
- Essay 3: Comparative Analysis
- Active Participation
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 issues such as intergovernmental coordination and cooperation, federal-state relations, centralisation and devolution, and fiscal
- Communicate research findings and recommendations effectively to a range of audiences
Assessment tasks
- Essay 2: Documentary Analysis
- Active Participation