Supplementary modules M5 and M6 are to be completed in the first semester. Students can choose from the following four modules:

W1 (AWE) Norms, Institutions and Social Progress

Students know major concepts, theoretical approaches, historical developments and debates on the role of non-economic variables such as norms and institutions in culture, religion, politics, etc. with regard to economic as well as overall socio-economic development. Students are aware of the fact that economic processes take place within social and cultural contexts, that failure to take account of specific contexts can mean that economic outcomes will be very different from those expected and that economic policies depend on political and other institutions to be implemented. Students are able to analyse potential positive or negative impact of cultural patterns and political structures on economic development and to draw conclusions relevant for a whole spectrum of actors and stake holders involved in the process. They are further able to present, discuss and defend their case in front of an audience, both individually and in working groups and teams.

W2 (AWE) Germany’s External Relations

Students know major organisations, institutions and channels of communication relevant for Germany’s political, economic, cultural and social external relations. They are aware of the multitude of avenues that different actors in external relations utilise to communicate, negotiate and implement their interests in the context of highly complex and dynamic international and global environments. Students get in touch with selected institutions and organisations representing typical actors in the field of external relations, learn about their position within the network of various actors as well as about their internal functioning. They understand the logic of their activities and can evaluate their relevance for Germany as well as for emerging markets and developing countries and are able to critically discuss their opportunities and limitations.

W3 (AWE) Research Methods in Social Sciences

Students learn about the process of scientific research in the social sciences and how to generate interesting and useful research questions. They master the different empirical research methods, know their limitations and can attribute their potential usefulness to concrete research questions. Students learn how to collect, describe, present, analyse and interpret data, on a qualitative as well as quantitative basis.

W4 (AWE) Project Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation

Students are acquainted with Project Cycle Management (PCM), i.e. approaches and methods which are widely applied in planning, monitoring and evaluation of development projects and programmes. Through demonstration and practical experience, they are familiar with the planning, monitoring and evaluation methods and tools applied on the various steps of the PCM process and know how to apply these methods in practice. Student are aware of their assumptions, opportunities and limitations and are able to adjust their approaches, methods and tools based on an assessment of the given environmental conditions in which concrete projects are being designed, implemented and evaluated.