Organization: Institute of International Humanitarian Affairs
Registration deadline: 29 Feb 2016
Starting date: 14 Mar 2016
Ending date: 18 Mar 2016
Course Description: This week-long course examines how humanitarian crises have been represented throughout history and considers the impact of media accounts on the potential for humanitarian action. The role of photojournalism and the images and narratives of broadcast and press media will be evaluated in the context of humanitarian goals and necessities. The dynamics between depiction and public perception, image and empathy, and narratives of compassion and inclusion are articulated within the larger context of global security and human rights. As conflict, suffering and issues of life and death remain significant global realities, this course details the conditions, practices, messages, obligations, ethics, and limits of telling the stories of those in crisis. All humanitarian practitioners working in complex emergencies are involved in documenting and reporting their experiences, whether in personal communications, interviews, newsletters or formal engagement with local or international media. A nuanced grasp of the ways in which these stories shape our practice, and the affected populations’ experience of aid are essential to our security and to sensitive, effective programming.
Class discussions will focus on topics such as the importance of the media in times of crisis, the purpose and dynamics of news, the influence of new media, and the role of photojournalism. There will also be training sessions dedicated to the development of practical skills including interpersonal communication styles, presentation performance, the drafting of press reports, and the conducting of media interviews. These practical skills combined with the theory presented in class lectures will serve as the basis for in depth examinations of case studies, communication tools and scenario exercises.
This class is structured on interactive and presentations by experienced humanitarian aid workers, media professionals, and Fordham academic faculty and on class facilitation. Students will engage in scenario exercises, group work and discussions and will have the opportunity to role play in mock interviews, press conferences, and crisis scenarios. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to identify and critically analyze the historical role of the media in humanitarian affairs, demonstrate specific communication and media skills, implement an effective organizational communication strategy, and use a personal account or testimony to support a clear comprehensive organizational position on a humanitarian issue. Students will be prepared to draft a press release, prepare for and participate in interviews applying knowledge of common journalist tricks and traps, and understand the role of narrative as well as how images and text construct narrative. Students will also be taught how to apply critical thinking to media representations of crises, affected populations and individuals, examining notions of objectivity, representation, construction and perspective.
Cost: There is a course fee of $1,600 USD. Upon successful completion of the program participants are entitled to two academic credits through Fordham University's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. For those who do not wish to receive formal academic credit, the cost has been reduced to $913 USD.
To learn more about this course, visit the individual course listing on our website
To view a complete list of IIHA course offerings, click here
About the IIHA:The Institute of International Humanitarian Affairs (IIHA)at Fordham University offers humanitarian training courses in various locations around the world. With the creation of aMaster's in Humanitarian Action (MIHA),the Institute offers a flexible yet academically rigorous training model for aid practitioners looking to further their knowledge and skills in the humanitarian sector.
How to register:
All of the IIHA courses can be taken for academic credit and counted towards Fordham University's Master's in International Humanitarian Action (MIHA) or taken individually, independent from the MIHA at a reduced cost.
To take this course, please apply here