LU0086, International rural development, 15.0 Hp
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Syllabus

Level

First cycle (G1F)

Main field of study

Rural Development, Agricultural Science

Grading Scale

5 / 4 / 3 / U

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Course language

English

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The purpose of this course is to provide students with a basic understanding of ecological, social, political and economic aspects of rural development in the global South. In order to achieve this aim the course offers an introduction to relevant theoretical frameworks, concepts, approaches, and discussions concerning aspects of rural livelihoods. Further, the course will provide students with an understanding of current potentials and obstacles in rural development in the global South.

Upon completion of the course, the students shall, verbally and in writing, be able to:

• discuss theoretical and empirical aspects of rural development in the global South.
• discuss the main components of livelihood strategies in different rural settings.
• compare and discuss how different notions of, and approaches to, development are linked to contemporary processes of globalization and environmental, agrarian and social change.
• compare and discuss theoretical and empirical perspectives on globalisation, and the specific impacts of global processes on different local rural contexts.

Content

This interdisciplinary course focuses on ecological, political, social, and economic factors of rural development in the global South. The course introduces the students to basic concepts and discussions in social and agricultural sciences, as well as development theories. The course is suitable for all university students, regardless of disciplinary background, who are interested in expanding their knowledge of rural development, and furthermore want to be able to identify and analyse problems and potentials in relation to rural livelihoods. The course compares and analyses different rural problems and potentials of development and underdevelopment, drawing on examples from the major regions of the global South. The course includes discussions on important aspects of rural livelihoods, such as food security, natural resource management, climate change, social organization and migration. There is also a focus on gender aspects and poverty/well-being within rural development.

Besides lectures the students will participate in compulsory discussion seminars and group work.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

The course is examined through written exam, group work, presentations and exercises. Approved examination and participation in compulsory sessions are required for passing the course.

•  If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.
• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.
• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.
• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Urban and Rural Development

Supplementary information

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Single module	15.0	0201

The Course Replaces

LU0056 och delar av LU0063

Other Information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.
• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.