Middle East and Terrorism module (PO51009)

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Credits

20

Module code

PO51009

Module aims

  • The ability to differentiate between varying forms of terrorism in relation to the political and societal context from which they originate
  • The differing domestic, regional and international responses they provoke
  • The analytical tools to critically assess contemporary counterterrorism policies of Middle Eastern and extra-regional actors

Module details

Students will gain an understanding of the scope and nature of terrorism as it relates to the Middle East.

Assessment

This module is assessed by two equally-weighted essays -

  •  2 x 3,500 word (40 credit)
  •  2 x 2,500 word (30 credit)

Teaching

This module is delivered through regular seminars. 

Intended Learning Outcomes 

Knowledge and Understanding

Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

  1. offer a detailed analysis of major manifestations of terrorism in the Middle East;
  2. explain the emergence of “new” forms of terrorism;
  3. identify the challenges regional and international actors face in confronting terrorism;
  4. assess the impact of Western counterterrorism policies on the evolvement of terrorism in the region;
  5. critically evaluate discourses on Middle Eastern terrorism within Western media and academia.

Transferrable Skills

Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

  1. Through the essay research process, students will learn to manage time pressure, and make concise explanation of their arguments, and:
    1. Demonstrate the development of research skills
    2. Demonstrate subject specific research techniques
    3. Apply a range of methodologies to complex political problems
  2. The essays will develop students’ critical capacities to assess both political and documentary evidence, and to make written arguments in a coherent, structured and persuasive way.
  3. Preparation of the essays will help develop skills of information technology (word processing and the use of the internet for research purposes).
  4. Through their seminar participations, students will be able to:
    1. Perform their cultivated inter-personal skills
    2. Perform their oral and written communication skills
    3. Increase their confidence in making oral arguments and giving short presentations before an audience.
    4. The seminar format will further encourage discussion and debate of differing viewpoints.