Development and the Third World

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

Usually 25 points of first-year development studies, anthropology, geography or a relevant discipline or approval of the subject coordinator.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject is an introduction to a range of issues about development in the 'third world'. It will explore the basic concepts used in development literature in addition to the many ways that development is understood and applied. Concepts such as 'third world', 'aid' and 'globalisation' will be critically examined. The key development institutions will be introduced through the use of case studies. The subject will consider the role of local knowledge, grass roots schemes, industrialisation, appropriate technology, empowerment, globalisation and modernity in development in the 'third world'. At the end of the subject students should be able to discern a range of modernities, approaches to development, and development alternatives that pertain locally within the broader political economies of the 'third world'.

• recognise that perceptions of quality of life and standards of living differ according to the criteria used to determine these;
• understand the non-government organisation approach and industrial growth approach to the problems confronting Third World countries;
• be familiar with the main development issues of the Third World, and be able to apply different development principles in the search for solutions to problems;
• have some knowledge of the forces operating in the global economy which differentially affect Third World countries.

One 1000-word assignment worth 30% (due in week 6), an essay of 3000 words 60% (in the last week of semester) and tutorial participation 10%.

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Biomedicine
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Environments
• Bachelor of Music
• Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Engineering

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

• be able to demonstrate conceptual and analytical skills;

• be able to write clear and concise reports;

• be able to demonstrate an understanding of cultural differences in the development process;

• be able to communicate clearly in discussion groups.