Youth for Good Governance
d i s t a n c e l e a r n i n g p r o g r a m
Module I
Introduction to Governance
Module I
Introduction to Governance
Module Overview Welcome to the Youth for Good Governance Distance Learning Program. The course team is excited to have another opportunity to work with students from around the world on this important topic following our official launch on June 20. During this module, you will be introduced to some of the basic concepts we will be using during the rest of the course. We will look at some of the functions of government, explore the meaning of governance, and start thinking about what determines good or bad governance. It is worth noting that we are starting this course on September 11, a year after the terrorist attacks in the United States. We will be exploring the link between corruption and terrorism in later modules.
1
Learning Objectives By the end of this module, you will be able to: • identify the basic functions of a government • define and discuss the concept of governance • understand the role of citizens in good governance • discuss the importance of governance. Participant Role You are encouraged to read all the materials in this handbook and attempt to complete all the exercises before the videoconference session. If you have any questions or need guidance with the exercises, contact your facilitator through the e-mail list that has been developed for the course.
Section Two: Functions of Government The basic work of government is to provide services, make laws, and enforce these laws. This work is carried out in three branches of government: the executiv e, the legislativ e, and the judicial. Officials in each branch of government can be elected or appointed, depending on the kind of laws in place. The rules and procedures set out by the government guide the way people in your country work or study, spend their leisure time, and participate in politics.
The Three Branches of...