SS7092 - Terrorism and Counter Terrorism (2023/24)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2023/24 | ||||||||||
| Module title | Terrorism and Counter Terrorism | ||||||||||
| Module level | Masters (07) | ||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 20 | ||||||||||
| School | School of Social Sciences and Professions | ||||||||||
| Total study hours | 199 | ||||||||||
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| Assessment components |
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| Running in 2023/24(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
This module explores the relationship between the state and terrorism and considers how the nation state has been the perpetrator and a motivating factor behind terrorist acts, as well as considering other reasons behind such acts of violence. Students will consider the role of the state as a protector of its citizens has been challenged by its own actions and by terrorist organisations including groups such as ISIS. The module goes on to outline contemporary terrorist tactics and reviews the impact on national and international responses to terrorism.
Prior learning requirements
None
Syllabus
Following an introductory session, the module will address the following topics:
- The role of the nation-state defining, protecting from and perpetrating terrorist activities (LO 1)
- Terrorism pre 9/11 (LO 2, 3)
- Islamic Terrorism (LO 3)
- Radicalisation and home-grown terrorism (LO 1, 3)
- Prison and radicalisation (LO 1, 3, 4)
- Terrorist desistence (LO 4)
- Global responses to terrorism (LO 5)
- UK counter-terrorism, Contest and Prevent (LO 5)
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
Teaching sessions consist of a series of recorded lectures and online discussions which encourage students to explore the political, strategic and tactical complexities of terrorism and counter terrorism. Students draw upon case studies and examine actual operational scenarios. Module materials will be made available on Blackboard (Web-learn) and opportunities for personal development planning are provided in seminar contexts.
This module will also be delivered through the use of distance learning strategies as follows:
- E-learning: delivered using computers utilising internet technology and programming which allows the student to interact with the learning materials via chat rooms, online office hours and notice boards. The present Weblearn facilities are sufficient to cover these methods.
- Online Lectures: lectures are to be recorded digitally and placed onto Weblearn and released to the students as required.
- Written materials: Students will be provided with written materials such as articles in electronic format (e.g. pdf files). Weblearn to be used as a repository for such material.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
- Explore the role of the state as protector from and perpetrator of terrorist violence
- Outline different motivations involved in why individuals and groups become radical
- Explain contemporary terrorist tactics within a historical context
- Consider lessons contained in examples of terrorist desistance
- Discuss the impacts of counter terrorism measures and the war on terror on both radicals and the wider public
Assessment strategy
Students to produce a response to a question set by the module leader that critically evaluates issues relating to the origins of terrorism, contemporary terrorism and/or counter terrorism measures. Students will need so show their ability to connect issues covered within different lectures, whist still focusing on a specific area of terrorism and counter terrorism research.
Students will have the option of producing a 4,500 word essay
Or
A 10 minute multimedia artefact (video, podcast etc) and transcript and references
Bibliography
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