PES7036-B Applied Conflict Research Portfolio

The assessment for this module is a portfolio comprising assignments of varying types

designed to test achievement against the module learning objectives.

There are three components to the portfolio:

·      A detailed conflict analysis case study (3250 words)

·      An analysis and reflection of one class-based exercise (750 words)

·      Evidence of participation and engagement

Details of each component are provided in the next section below.

The portfolio will be marked as one collection of work (rather than three separate

elements) but taking into consideration the different length/demands of each task. Your

work will be marked in accordance with the assessment criteria for essays & reflective

essays used in the Division of Peace Studies and International Development. These are set

out in detail on Canvas.

In short, we will look for the following qualities in submitted work, appropriate to the level

of study:

·      Evidence of systematic and careful reading, evident in secure, well-rounded knowledge of the

concepts, theories and research literature covered in the module, as well as evidence of

independent inquiry.

·      Evidence of ability to use concepts and theory to generate and support critical inquiry.

·      Evidence of being able to develop systematic, coherent arguments that demonstrate

independent and critical thinking.

·      Evidence of ability to reflect on the process of learning and development, including skills

associated with conflict resolution practice.

·      Evidence of being able to write effectively in English according to the task, purpose and level

of study.

·      Evidence of thorough and honest referencing.

·      Evidence of appropriate participation and engagement throughout the semester.

The referencing style used at Bradford University is Harvard. You can find guidance on

referencing here: Referencing and Plagiarism – Help – University of Bradford

Submission of the portfolio will be via Canvas. A submission link will be set up within the Assessment folder. Your essay should be submitted as a Word document.

Work that is over the stated word length will attract a penalty in proportion to the additional words (e.g. 5%)

This module does not authorise the use of AI in the preparation or completion of your assessment work. You are expected to read and write without AI assistance. You should keep copies of all draft work and should be able to provide evidence of your research and writing process if required.

All submissions are checked by Turnitin plagiarism and AI-detection software. You should focus on ensuring your essay meets the university guidelines for referencing and academic integrity: What is plagiarism? – Find out about – University of Bradford

If you have any questions about this assignment, please speak with your module leader in good time before the deadline.

Please ensure you allow enough time for completing your work. Avoid submitting it very close to the deadline in case of technical issues (e.g. broken Wi-Fi). It is your
responsibility to ensure you submit the correct file and on time.

Component 1. Conflict Analysis Case Study (3250 words)

This is an extended analysis of a conflict which should demonstrate your ability to distinguish and critically analyse causes and drivers of conflict, using appropriate theoretical frameworks and/or analytical tools. You can choose one of the conflicts (it

doesn’t have to be a war) we have explored together in class.

If you are interested in exploring a case which we have not explored in class, this must be confirmed with the module leader (Dr. Sudhir Selvaraj) well ahead of time (and no later than week 10 of the module). An argument must be made as to why you are pursuing this case study and should include a list of 10 references found via the library that you would consult for your work. The module leader will have discretion over whether to accept this.

You can approach this task by responding to ONE of the following questions: 1. In your case-study, do some factors have a stronger causal role than others in the emergence, escalation and unfolding of (violent) conflict and, if so, why? Develop an argument using relevant theories, concepts and evidence.

2. Choose one theoretical framework that was introduced in the module (e.g. social identity

theory, protracted social conflict, Galtung’s violence triangle). What does this framework help us understand about the causes and dynamics of conflict in your case-study? What are the limitations of this approach?

3. Choose one conflict analysis tool (e.g. a conflict mapping method, frame analysis, systems thinking, etc). Critically evaluate how useful is this tool for developing insight into conflict causes and dynamics?

4. Choose one research method. Critically evaluate its relevance and limitations in

5. Identify an existing source of secondary conflict data (e.g. a dataset or set of
newspapers or policy documents) and identify the strengths and weaknesses in providing evidence on the causes, dynamics, and consequences of conflict?

Please note that the resubmission should attempt a question other than the one you attempted previously in the main assessment cycle.

Component 2. An analysis and reflection of one class-based exercise (750 words)

This involves a reflection on one of the tasks that have been completed in group work exercises in class. This reflection is to help you identify and explain a key aspect of your learning during the module. It should not just describe what you have learned, but provide an explanation of why and how learning took place.

Your writing should be informed and supported by relevant reading (from the module), demonstrating an ability to draw on scholarly insights to develop and deepen your own observations. The focus is on demonstrating a capacity for informed insight into practice based on (simulated) experience.

Component 3. Evidence of Participation and Engagement

Submit materials providing evidence of completed preparatory work tasks and in-class exercises, used for formative group or individual feedback. A confirmed list of contents will be provided at the end of teaching in week 12.