Democracy in Scotland
Power and decision-making in Scotland
Study features of a democratic political society, devolved and reserved matters, and the role and powers of Scotland's First Minister.
Political participation in Scotland
There are numerous ways for individuals to participate in politics in Scotland from local councils through to membership of political parties and standing for election to parliament.
Political representation in Scotland
Study the role of MSPs and the purpose, function and composition of committees in the Scottish Parliament.
Political influence in Scotland
Study the effect and influence of the media and pressure groups and trade unions on democracy and political activity in Scotland.
Voting systems in Scotland
Learn about the voting systems in Scotland - the Additional Member System (AMS) and the Single Transferable Vote (STV).
Video playlist
What are trade unions and how do they help people in the workplace? Video
A look at the role played by trade unions in representing workers with employers.
Pressure groups. Video
A look at a range of pressure groups and their methods.
How does the political system work in the UK? Video
An overview of institutions in the UK political system, such as the Houses of Parliament.
What are the differences between political systems in Scotland and the UK? Video
A comparison between the responsibilities of Scottish parliament and the UK parliament.
How MSPs are elected to Scottish parliament. Video
An explanation of the Additional Member System used for elections to Scottish parliament.
How important is public opinion? Video
The influence of public opinion on shaping government legislation.
How do the media influence us and what does this mean for political parties in the UK? Video
Looking at what influence the UK media have on the political process.
The influence of the media. Video
An examination of the relationship between the media and politicians.
Battle of the Forth Road Bridge. Video
The problems faced by the SNP to build a new Forth Road Bridge.
A day in the life of a local councillor. Video
A summary of the role councillors play in Scottish communities.
Meet the MSP. Video
Pros and cons of an SNP proposal to raise the age at which alcohol can be purchased to 21.
Outsider pressure groups. Video
The use of direct action by pro-hunting pressure groups.
Trade unions at Kvaerner Govan. Video
A series of Â鶹ԼÅÄ news items summarising the sequence of events in an industrial dispute.
Meet the civil servant. Video
A discussion on the role and unseen work of the civil service.
How the Scottish Parliament works - Free personal care. Video
The implementation of free personal care for older people in Scotland.
Insider pressure groups. Video
Three case studies explain the influence of pressure groups on Scottish government.
The work of an MSP. Video
Shona Robison, MSP, Dundee East, explains her work as an MSP.
How the Scottish Parliament works - Gypsy travellers. Video
The response of the Scottish Parliament to the demands of a section of society.
What are pressure groups and how do they affect political decision making? Video
Pressure groups and how they aim to influence political decision making in the UK.
A day in the life of an MP in UK parliament. Video
Examples of the tasks carried out by an MP, such as meeting constituents.
Local government money. Video
A look at the main sources of local government income and expenditure and how it is spent.
A day in the life of an MSP in Scottish parliament. Video
Tasks carried out by an MSP, such as meeting constituents and proposing new laws.
Local council services. Video
A look at the importance of local government in our daily lives.
How the Scottish Parliament works - Private Member’s Bill. Video
The implementation of a successful Members' Bill is looked at through a case study.
How are councillors elected in Scotland? Video
The Single Transferable Vote system is used to elect local councillors in Scotland.
Local government funding - Public Private Partnership. Video
A look at the use of Public Private Partnership funding by a local council.
Youth involvement with local councils. Video
Local councils can consult with youth groups to help them serve young people.
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