University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 12.00 noon Thu

This module examines the concept of terrorism; problems of definition; nature and characteristics and relationships to other forms of violence; typology; political objectives, strategies and motivations; underlying causes of rise and decline of terrorism; dilemmas of democratic and international response; aviation terrorism; terrorism and diplomacy; the problem of state sponsorship and support; problems of international co-operation, including the use of diplomacy, international law and organisation, and police and intelligence measures.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass IR2006

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 1-hour lecture (x 10 weeks), 1 x 1-hour tutorial (x 10 weeks), 2 consultation hours with Coordinator (x 12 weeks). 2 hours examination feedback in week 1 of following semester.

Scheduled learning hours: 22

Guided independent study hours: 278

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr F P Lehr

Intended learning outcomes

• Develop a knowledge and understanding of how terrorism can be described and defined.
• Develop a knowledge of the historical antecedents and causes of modern terrorism.
• Develop an understanding of the diverse aims, motivations and justifications of contemporary terrorist movements.
• Develop an appreciation of the impact and effects that terrorism has had on government, the security forces, the media, the public, and international politics in general.
• Develop an understanding of the difficulties and prospects of resolving terrorism for states, using the wide repertoire of available instruments from the counter-terrorism toolbox.
• Develop a knowledge and understanding of the role of the social sciences in research on terrorism.