Introduction to Studies and Specialty (SZF_055)
About Study Course
Objective
The course "Introduction to Studies and Specialization" is designed to prepare political science students for their upcoming 3-5 years of study.
During the course, students will be introduced to the fundamental requirements of the RSU ESF regarding the study process and collaboration between students and lecturers, such as the content and formatting of written assignments, understanding plagiarism and self-plagiarism, opportunities for searching academically appropriate information in library resources, critical thinking, using the MyRSU portal in the study process, etc. Concurrently, the course will also provide insights into the basic concepts of the chosen academic discipline – political science and international relations, and students will go on educational excursions to various government institutions (the Parliament, the Cabinet of Ministers, the State Chancellery, etc.), as well as meet with industry experts - guest lecturers.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of international relations and politics: students should have a general understanding of the international system, the main actors in international relations (states, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, etc.), as well as the fundamental concepts and theories that explain the dynamics of international relations.
Interest in European politics and history: Although detailed prior knowledge of European politics and history is not mandatory, students' interest and basic knowledge in this area will help in the successful acquisition of course materials. It is recommended to be informed about the functioning of the European Union, the main events in European history, and their impact on contemporary politics.
Analytical skills: The ability to analyze, compare, and synthesize information is essential for successfully mastering the course materials. This includes reading texts with comprehension, evaluating arguments, and critical thinking.
Communication skills: Good written and oral communication skills will help students effectively express their thoughts and arguments, as well as successfully participate in discussions and presentations.
Language skills: Although the primary language of instruction is Latvian, good English language skills are necessary, as many study materials and sources may only be available in English. Knowledge of other European languages can be beneficial for accessing a wider range of information sources.
Motivation and self-discipline: Students must have high motivation and self-discipline to independently organize their study process, follow the course requirements, and meet deadlines.
Learning outcomes
1.• Will be able to identify situations where references must be used.
• Will be able to identify the key information in a text to provide an answer to an essay question.
• Will be able to evaluate ethical and unethical principles in academic activities.
• Will be able to define the basic terms of political science.
• Will be able to develop and present a paper idea, as well as write the paper.
• Will be familiar with the key institutions of the field, their main tasks, and operating principles.
1.• Will be able to independently create a summary/essay text.
• Will be able to select the most appropriate literature in information databases.
• Will be able to explain the basic definitions of political science.
• Will be able to present the results of a paper.
1.• Will be able to articulate their opinion in seminars.
• Will be able to develop an independent written work that meets the requirements of a summary, scientific essay, or paper.
• Will be able to defend their viewpoint with reasoned arguments in a scientific essay.
