Understanding the different political systems across the United Kingdom
Time: 10:15 - 12:15
Location: Keeley Street
- Course Code: HPC135
- Dates: 01/05/25 - 22/05/25
- Time: 10:15 - 12:15
- Taught: Thu, Daytime
- Duration: 4 sessions (over 4 weeks)
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Ian McGarvie
Course Code: HPC135
Duration: 4 sessions (over 4 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
This course aims to give you a grounding in the differing political systems that are present in the UK exploring why there is a Scottish Parliament, a Welsh Parliament and an assembly in Northern Ireland and the implications this has or can have on the politics of the United Kingdom as a whole.
What will we cover?
- The United States of Britain i.e. devolution.
- What is devolution?
- Why did devolution occur?
- What are the pros and cons of having different political systems in the UK
- Is the UK a quasi-federalist state?
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Understand the different and possibly competing powers in the UK political system
- Decide if you support devolution or not.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable both for newcomers to the subject and for those who have some background knowledge. You will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. An ability and willingness to explore relevant shared resources will increase what you get out of the course.
However, as with most of our history, politics and current affairs courses, an open mind and a respectful willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.
Given the sensitive nature of some of the topics the course will explore, we also expect everyone to engage group and class discussions with respect and willingness to learn from others.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The online course will be delivered through a mixture of lecture and discussion, with student participation invited and encouraged. Optional extend your knowledge tasks can be set if required.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no additional costs, but you may wish to bring a pen and paper, or digital equivalents, for making notes.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
HPC194 One year in: how is the government faring?
Ian has taught in Adult Education in London from 1996. He holds a degree in Economics and a MSc in Politics and Administration from Birkbeck College, University of London. Ian is highly committed to adult and continuing learning and has taught politics and political history courses at Morley College and Richmond Adult and Community College and Hillcroft College, in addition to Citylit. Ian has held both teaching and academic management roles including the development of humanities courses that engage and inform students in areas including History and Politics and provide opportunities to progress to further study. He has specialised in teaching a range of courses in politics and current affairs focusing on UK governance and developments in the UK constitution. He has also taught courses on domestic and foreign policy, political parties, and assessments of political leadership. He has also taught on Access to Higher Education Courses that prepare student for degree level study.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.