CM2S062 - The Politics of Policing 01 Sep 2024 - 31 Aug 2030 | Version 1
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | CM2S062 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | The Politics of Policing | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Life Sciences and Education | ||
| Faculty Group: | Policing and Criminology | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Criminology | ||
| Module Leader: | Sophie Chambers | ||
| Module Team: | Daniel Welch, Helen Martin, Joanne Bates, Louise McGibbon, David Morgan | ||
| First Intended Intake: | SEP 2024 | Final Year of Intake: | 2029 |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 20 | Credit Level: | 5 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 0 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | |||
| HECOS Code Weighting: | |||
Document Version Information
| Version | 1 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 01 Sep 2024 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2030 |
Module Aims
The aim of this module is to offer students a comprehensive understanding of modern policing in England and Wales. This encompasses a historical perspective, exploration of key roles and institutions, examination of diverse policing styles, and an analysis of how cultural and political aspects can shape contemporary policing practices.
Content Summary
Students will examine the multifaceted nature of policing through legal, sociological, criminological, and political lenses, while tracing the historical evolution of policing in Britain and the theoretical perspectives that have shaped it.
The module delves into the structure and operation of contemporary policing, considering it as a form of social control. It explores the emergence of 'plural policing,' involving collaborations with local authorities and private entities, as well as the policing of various types of crime and harm, as methods of social control. Managerial and populist influences on policing are scrutinised, acknowledging that policing inherently carries political implications, including the potential impact on civil liberties. Key policing styles such as zero tolerance, community policing, and problem-oriented policing are critically assessed. The module also addresses the policing of protests, civil disorder, and significant events like the Hillsborough disaster, along with the challenges posed by policing a diverse society.
The socialisation of the police is also examined, debating the benefits of ‘cop culture’, as well as the problems. Assessing such problems warrants discussion on miscarriages of justice, police corruption and the use of force. Throughout the course, students will engage with a comprehensive examination of these themes. The module will also explore:
· Principle of policing by consent
· The role, responsibilities and powers of a Police Constable
· The Office of Constable
· The organisation and structure of policing in England and Wales
· The role of the police within the criminal justice system.
· The creation of the police (e.g. Peelian principles)
· The policing mission
· Role of His Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS)
· Role of the NPCC (National Police Chiefs Council)
· Role of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) (formerly Police Complaints Commission)
· Role of the College of Policing
· Styles of Policing: Community policing, Problem Oriented Policing, Neighbourhood policing, Zero Tolerance Policing, Signal Crimes Initiative, Reassurance policing, Intelligence-led Policing.
· Police Culture
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 12 |
| Practical classes and workshops | 24 |
| Independent Study | 84 |
| Directed Study | 80 |
| Total Hours Selected | 200 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the historical development of modern policing in England and Wales, and its contemporary roles, structures, and key institutions. |
| LO2 | Analyse cultural / political influences on police practices, and their implications for Policing as a form of social control. |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asynchronous Assessment | Student Choice 1 | Students will select a case on a police issue(s) and will apply their criminological knowledge from this module to the case. (Choice of Asynchronous Presentation or Case Study). | 20 | 2500 | 100 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Student Choice 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |