Transferring knowledge to narrative worlds: Applying power taxonomy to science fiction films

Abstract

Instructors of courses in international relations increasingly use films to facilitate students' learning of abstract concepts and to deepen their understanding of theories. This paper introduces how the fictional universes presented in films can be utilized as platforms for students to learn about the application of analytical frameworks. This method aims to enhance students' abilities to transfer learned knowledge to a different setting. Knowledge transfer requires skills that go beyond lower-order thinking. Higher-order thinking aids students' retention of concepts, and enables them to apply what they have learned to new situations. This article illustrates an application of a power taxonomy in the narrative world of the non-historical science fiction films. This exercise can easily be transported to various political science, international relations, and other courses to help students learn various analytical concepts, frameworks, and theories.