Understanding theories of international development through role-play: a critical discussion of a post-graduate seminar activity exploring two contrasting theories

Abstract

It is critical that students of international development understand the theoretical foundations of practice and policy in this field. Dependency theory and neo-liberalism provide divergent perspectives regarding the causes of and solutions to 'underdevelopment' in the Global South. This article outlines a student role-play activity that was developed to both clarify these theories of development and to consider the tensions between them. The article describes both the rationale for, and the main components and processes of this role-play, and reflects critically on the learning process and outcomes of the role-play method.