ATS1314 · Introduction to international human rights

Overview

This unit offers you an introduction to the theory and practice of international human rights. You will examine international human rights conventions and processes, along with legal, political and philosophical perspectives on human rights disputes. Theoretical questions we will consider include: what are human rights, and why do they matter? Who is responsible for upholding human rights? Are human rights truly universal? You will explore these questions in relation to some of the most pressing human rights issues of international politics, such as global poverty, refugees, and state-sanctioned torture.

Areas of study: Human rights

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. demonstrate proficiency of the basic concepts of human rights, and their application to contemporary issue;
2. explain the structure of core international human rights instruments;
3. analyse and critique philosophical arguments regarding the universality of human rights;
4. communicate effectively about the theory and practice of human rights, both orally and in writing.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.