PLD1103 — Social Issues and Development

This course serves as an interdisciplinary foundation within the International Development program. The course shifts students' perspective from pure economic analysis to a holistic understanding of development by exploring the complex interactions between social dynamics and economic transformation.

Grounded in the Rights-based Approach and the Leave No One Behind principle, the course provides both theoretical frameworks and practical tools for analyzing social issues in development contexts. Key topics include social stratification and multidimensional poverty, social protection systems with particular focus on Vietnam's social insurance and social assistance mechanisms, public service delivery in health and education sectors, social conflicts arising from rapid economic integration including land disputes and labor strikes, demographic transitions such as population aging and migration patterns, and analytical tools including Social Impact Assessment and Stakeholder Analysis. The course emphasizes Vietnam's position and challenges within the international development landscape while maintaining strong connections to global frameworks and best practices from international organizations.

Requirements for Final Examination

Students must achieve a minimum attendance score of 5 out of 10 to be eligible for the final examination, in accordance with University regulations. See Rubric 1 in Appendix 2 for detailed attendance evaluation criteria. Additionally, students must complete and submit both the midterm test and the group project to qualify for final examination participation. Students who fail to meet these prerequisites will not be permitted to take the final examination and will receive a failing grade for the course.

Requirements for Class Attendance

Students are expected to attend at least 80 percent of scheduled class sessions throughout the semester. Both lecture and seminar sessions are mandatory as they serve complementary pedagogical purposes. Regular attendance is essential given the seminar-based and discussion-oriented nature of many course activities. Students must notify instructors in advance of any anticipated absences through official channels. Excessive absences beyond the permitted threshold will result in automatic course failure regardless of performance on graded assessment components.

Requirements for In-class Behaviour

Students are expected to maintain professional and respectful conduct during all class sessions. This includes arriving punctually, actively participating in discussions, and respecting diverse viewpoints particularly when addressing sensitive social issues. Students should come prepared to both lecture and seminar sessions having completed assigned readings and prepared any required exercises. Active engagement in seminar discussions, case analyses, simulation activities, and practical exercises directly contributes to the attendance and participation grade. Use of mobile devices should be limited to course-related activities. During case study discussions involving sensitive topics, students may be asked to adhere to Chatham House Rule to encourage open dialogue. Students are expected to contribute constructively to group work, demonstrating both individual initiative and collaborative skills.