1. Critically understand theoretical and conceptual approaches in terrorism studies
Knowledge and understanding

2. Critically understand research methodologies and research ethics in terrorism studies
Knowledge and understanding; application; analysis

3. Critically understand how political, socio-economic, and religious grievances can act as facilitators of radicalisation and terrorism, and apply this knowledge to case-studies
Knowledge and understanding

4. Critically understand how to place terrorism within a wider rubric of ethno-politics, social change and international relations
Knowledge and understanding

5. Undertake analyses of the complex, incomplete and contradictory aspects of our knowledge concerning terrorism in terms of its relationship with transnational crime and global security
Analysis; reflection; communication

6. Critically evaluate theoretical approaches and research methodologies in terrorism studies using knowledge which may be at the forefront of the discipline
Enquiry; problem solving; reflection

One research proposal of 4,000 words developed from weekly journal entries (meets learning outcomes 1-6)

Weekly journal entries uploaded on time and participation in on-line tasks and discussion (meets learning outcomes 1, 2, 3)

This module provides students with systematic theoretical and empirical knowledge based on the study of differing types of terrorism and political violence. Specifically this module seeks to develop student’s ability to critically reflect on their research practice as they study what can be a controversial subject. In order to achieve this the module will draw on existing academic work in the field of terrorism studies to expose students to a variety of theoretical, conceptual and paradigmatic positions from which terrorism, political violence and state responses to both can be examined. Based firmly on data drawn from empirical research carried out by recognised scholars in the field, this module will provide students with the knowledge and ability to link abstract theory and research methods with tangible research outcomes.

This module will be based on flexible learning materials delivered using the Blackboard virtual learning environment and selected readings provided in (a) a limited number of course texts (b) e-reading packs of selected articles and book chapters or (c) e-books, e-journal articles and online news coverage.
The Blackboard environment will provide a context for: - Tutors to highlight key issues, problems and debates for discussion.
- Learners to undertake a range of structured activities which will involve, for example, problem-solving, literature search, engagement with group discussions, and scenarios.
- Tutors to provide guidance and advice.
- Learners to access guidance on on-line resources available via the web and the university's e-resources pages. The readings will provide:
- An essential knowledge base for the module which will be available to all learners.
- A resource for coursework and all assessed assignments.
- A point of departure for the structured activities set for learners.
Learners will be expected to engage fully and critically with the resources and activities that are provided and to engage in detailed discussion with tutors and other learners. Tutors will give online academic support and guidance to learners throughout the lifetime of the module and will respond on a timely basis.

Bjorgo, T. (ed) (2005) Root Causes of Terrorism: Myths, Realities and Ways Forward, London: Routledge.
Crenshaw, M. (2011) Explaining Terrorism: Causes, Processes and Consequences, New York: Routledge.
Fest, K.A. (2011) America Responds to Terrorism: Conflict Resolution Strategies of Clinton, Bush, and Obama, New York: Palgrave Macmillan.
Herschinger, E. (2011) Constructing Global Enemies: Hegemony and Identity in International Discourses on Terrorism and Drug Prohibition, New York: Routledge.
Martin, G. (2011) Essentials of Terrorism: Concepts and Controversies, Los Angeles: Sage.
Pedahzur, A. (ed) (2007) Root Causes of Suicide Terrorism: The Globalization of Martyrdom, New York: Routledge. Sageman, M. (2007) Leaderless Jihad: Terror Networks in the Twenty-First Century, Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania Press.
Silke, A. (2004) Research on Terrorism: Trends, Achievements and Failures, Abingdon, Oxon, Routledge.
Webel, C.P. and J.A. Arnaldi (eds) (2011) The Ethics and Efficacy of the Global War on Terrorism: Fighting Terror with Terror, Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.

University Library
ebrary resources
Blackboard
Internet Access

Students undertaking this module will gain a systematic theoretical and empirical knowledge based on the study of differing types of terrorism and political violence. This module aims to develop student’s ability to critically reflect on their research practice as they study what can be a controversial subject. The module draws on existing academic work in the field of terrorism studies to expose students to a variety of theoretical, conceptual and paradigmatic positions from which terrorism, political violence and state responses to both can be examined. Based firmly on data drawn from empirical research carried out by recognised scholars in the field, this module will provide students with the knowledge and ability to link abstract theory and research methods with tangible research outcomes.