Abstract:

The presentation will provide an overview of the development of the distance-learning MSc in Security, Conflict and International Development (SCID) at the Department of Criminology at the University of Leicester (UK) (http://tinyurl.com/cyehtly). The Course focuses on how to meet the strategic security and justice challenges of countries emerging from conflict, and is designed specifically for those working - or hoping to work - in international development.

This Course revolutionises the delivery of distance learning programmes, giving busy people the flexibility to study on the move: the University of Leicester is the first university to send iPads to distance learning students and provide them with a specially-developed App for their materials. The App enables those working in the field of international development, many of whom move around frequently and work in hostile environments with limited internet access, to pursue their studies.

The Course is also accessible via the internet and a bespoke Virtual Learning Environment provides students with opportunities to interact with each other and teaching staff. The Course utilises a large number and variety of multimedia sources and social media, and incorporates interactive e-tivities into the assessment process, to make the learning process more engaging and dynamic.

The Course also draws from the expertise of over 70 leading international experts in the field of conflict management and recovery, since the recent establishment of the SCID Panel of Experts (http://tinyurl.com/p6ymzm6). Panel members provide Online Guest Lectures (which are uploaded to the new SCID Blog - http://uolscid.wordpress.com); share information and guidance with students; supervise dissertations; and from 2014 will participate in an annual Symposium and contribute to the publication of an annual Critical Reader.

Since the launch of the Course in March 2012, feedback from the students and, more recently, Panel members, has been overwhelmingly positive. The Course was also short-listed for a national e-learning award and was nominated by the University of Leicester for consideration for a Times Higher Education Award for Outstanding Contribution to Innovation and Technology. Efforts persist to ensure the Course continues to provide excellence and incorporates field-based, pedagogic and technological developments.

Keywords:

Mobile learning, e-learning, security learning, conflict studies.