SEMINAR SCHEDULE & DISCUSSION TOPICS

SEMINAR NUMBER

DISCUSSION TOPIC

TOPIC OUTLINE

ONE

(29.12.2013)

Introduction to the Course

a. Course syllabus and objectives

b. Assignments

c. Evaluation (Course; Final exam)

d. Web links / References

Branches of Government

a. The Legislature

b. The Executive

c. The Judiciary

(Definition, Composition, Functions & Types)

Advantages & Disadvantages of Unicameral & Bicameral Legislatures

TWO

(12.1.2014)

THE EXECUTIVE

THE JUDICIARY

Types & Methods of Selection

Concept of Judicial Independence

Methods of appointment of Judges

THREE

(9.2.2014)

FORMS OF GOVERNMENT

Federal and Unitary

Parliamentary & Presidential

Democratic versus Autocratic Regimes

Constitutional , Republic & Totalitarian governments

TEST (20 marks)

Submission of Written Assignment (Individual)

FOUR

(23.2.2014)

Civil Service

Election, Representation Systems, Political Parties & Pressure Groups, Direct Legislation

All aspects covered in the Syllabus

Revision of topics discussed in Seminars 1-3

FIVE

(9.3.2014)

Voting Behaviour

OVERALL REVISION OF SYLLABUS TOPICS

Factors that determine the outcome of an election