Political Science Education in the Modern Era

Political Science is a dynamic discipline that continually engages with human transactions through philosophical, theoretical, and praxis-based approaches to address new challenges and emerging societal concerns. Such evolving trends and concerns often impact practitioners’ capacity to effectively conduct their work. The complexities of these trends have a compounded influence both domestically and worldwide, and education can assist political science professionals in addressing them in the future.

Digital Politics

The advent of rapid digitisation has heralded the transformation of political processes. Digital politics has emerged as a significant area of study, focusing not only on the influence of digital platforms, social media, and online communication on political behaviour, but also on rejuvenating modes of campaigns, activism, and governance. Researchers in this field analyse the effects of digital technologies on political participation, electoral processes, disinformation, online activism, and the role of tech companies, individuals, and states in shaping political landscapes.

Environmental Politics and Sustainability

Environmental politics has gained prominence as societies grapple with the urgent need to address climate change and sustainability. This field explores the political dynamics surrounding environmental issues, including policymaking, international negotiations, activism, and the roles of various factors such as governments, NGOs, civil societies, and corporations. Researchers study environmental governance, climate change adaptation, energy policies, environmental justice, and the politics of natural resource management.

Technology and Governance

The intersection of technology and governance is an emerging area of study within Political Science. It examines how technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, digital currency, and data analytics, impact governance structures, decision-making processes, and public administration. Researchers delve into topics like e-governance, digital democracy, data sovereignty, cybersecurity, privacy, and the ethics of emerging technologies.

Global Governance and International Institutions

In the 21st century, global governance and international institutions continue to evolve, given the increasing complexity of global challenges and the need for effective multilateral cooperation. Scholars in this field explore the role of international organisations, regional alliances, and global governance mechanisms in addressing issues like climate change, migration, trade, security, and human rights. They analyse the effectiveness, legitimacy, and adaptation of these institutions in a rapidly changing world.

Intersectionality and Politics

The intersection of different social identities and political power structures has gained renewed attention in Political Science. This area of study examines how race, gender, sexuality, class, and ethnicity intersect and influence politics and shape political outcomes. Researchers explore the experiences of marginalised groups, identity-based movements, representation, and policies addressing social inequalities to find solutions to address them.

Populism and Political Movements

The rise of populist movements and their impact on political systems has become a focus of political science research. Scholars investigate the causes, dynamics, and consequences of populism, as well as the relationship between populism and the ‘decline/shift’ in democracy. They examine the strategies, rhetoric, and appeal of populist leaders and movements, as well as their implications for governance, institutions, and political culture.

Political Economy and Inequality

The study of political economy and inequality explores the intersection of economics and politics. It examines the distribution of power, resources, and opportunities within societies, and how political processes shape economic outcomes. Researchers analyse the causes and consequences of economic inequality, the role of institutions and policies in addressing inequality, and the politics of economic development.

These examples represent current trends and emerging areas within Political Science. As the field continues to evolve, new areas of study will likely emerge in response to the evolving political landscape and global challenges. Thus, the study of teaching and student learning is becoming increasingly important.

In many ways, political science education is more vital than ever before, not least because we teach skills that develop leaders. Students need to understand how to diagnose and analyse a problem, develop evidence-based strategies to solve problems, mobilise support for their ideas and activities, and utilise ethical insights to guide the use of power to accomplish desired outcomes. These skills are needed now at all levels of society, not just in government but also in the private sector, the nonprofit sector, and civil society. Thus, rethinking the teaching of political science at the undergraduate and graduate levels is needed now more than ever.