Global issues

About this course

The course examines how global issues affect people and influence the balance of power. Topics may include international organisations, climate change, food and water security, energy transition, trade, inequality, underdevelopment, migration, human rights, war and peace. Teaching combines lectures supported by PowerPoint presentations with discussions in larger and smaller groups. Discussion materials are available in advance through the course website, enabling participants to consider relationships between issues such as climate change, food provision, migration and human security.

What you'll learn

• Explain a key challenge involved in addressing global issues
• Discuss how climate change affects food provision and basic services
• Identify a relationship between human security, transnational terrorism and migration
• Identify two challenges associated with underdevelopment and inequality

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners who are new to global issues, as well as those with some familiarity with the topics. It involves listening to different viewpoints and contributing to large- and small-group discussions, so a good grasp of English is needed for full participation.

• Introductory level, with no particular subject skill level highlighted
• Requires willingness to consider views that may differ from one's own
• Includes preparation for class discussions

Before you go

• A pen and paper will be useful for making notes.
• Books may be recommended, but purchasing them is not required.
• Materials for preparing discussions are available on the course website.