International development

Gender and Development: Theory, Concepts and Issues

Module code: L2104
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Essay

This module considers development processes in the light of how they are shaped by and impact upon gender discourses and relations. The module introduces you to key concepts in the analysis of social relations between women and men in different cultural, economic and political contexts. This includes examining the nature of gender inequality and of the household as a social construct, and reviewing concepts of power and empowerment. While concerned with providing a theoretical and conceptual grounding by reviewing debates on the household and the gender division of labour, the module is organised around substantive and policy topics related to poverty, labour markets, women’s employment, migration, and globalisation.

Module learning outcomes

• The ability to apply key concepts in the analysis of social relations between women and men / boys and girls in different cultural, economic and political contexts.
• To demonstrate a critical understanding of the main theoretical perspectives and issues that have informed gender and development thinking
• To analyse different approaches to gender and development theory, policy and practice with reference to concrete empirical applications.