Taking Action: Campaigning for Social Justice

Module Aim

This module was developed for the Study Abroad Summer School. It offers opportunities to explore a range of global and social issues of interest and concern to young people today in areas such as climate change, migration, social inclusion/exclusion, diversity and multiculturalism, and wellbeing and mental health. It further seeks to develop knowledge and strategies in relating to social media campaigning. This is with a view to raising critical awareness of these issues and providing practical training in relation to the skills and tools that are needed to build a related social media campaign. 

Syllabus 

This module consists of two components; the first relates to the development of critical awareness of students in relation to a range of global and social issues which will be achieved by means of a series of themed lectures and workshops; the second component will involve the development of a range of skills in the areas of social media journalism and social media campaigning which will be achieved through a series of practical workshops and field trips.

Learning Experience 

This module will be delivered in face-to-face delivery mode and will involve interactive lectures, workshops, virtual exchanges and a field trip (to be decided). While some theoretical background will be provided, the module has a strong focus on task-based, practical and experiential activities as well as on reflective sessions.

Learning Outcomes 

Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)

On successful completion of the module, students should be able to:

• Acquire knowledge in relation to a range of global and social issues and act using that knowledge.
• Develop an understanding of the principles underlying social media campaigning and how to apply this knowledge to develop an online social media campaign
• Acquire insights into online tools and applications and how these can be exploited for social campaigning purposes. ·
• Develop and apply practical knowledge and expertise in the related areas.

Affective (Attitudes and Values)

On successful completion of the module, students should be able to:

• Appreciate a range of global and social issues and concerns.
• Reflect on these issues, and develop a critical response.
• Develop empathy towards other persons, groups and cultures
• Develop a sense of agency and empowerment amongst the participants.