Course Description
Provides students with an intensive study abroad experience to learn about the effects of years of political and religious conflict in Northern Ireland (known as “The Troubles”) on individuals, families, groups, and organizations. Students also learn the long-term social and psychological impacts of conflict, including PTSD.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students are required to do work at a more advanced
level. This is reflected in several ways. First, it involves a
greater emphasis on synthesis of scholarly literature for one of
the assignments. Next, it includes an extra integrative
assignment that focuses on the relationship between the study
abroad experience and professional identity. Finally, greater
emphasis is given to the students' ability to demonstrate
integration and critical reflection in the grading of all
assignments.
Athena Title
International Course N Ireland
Non-Traditional Format
This course will be offered during Maymester and will involve guided experiences, seminars, and lectures. Students will travel to Northern Ireland to get firsthand exposure to the transgenerational impact of the violence from the four-decade long conflict in Northern Ireland known as “The Troubles.” Belfast, Ballycastle, Londonderry (Derry) and parts in-between in Northern Ireland will be visited. Students will learn about the culture and history of Northern Ireland; visit trauma recovery centers throughout the country; meet with victims of the Troubles who are struggling with the aftermath, former paramilitaries from both sides of the conflict and social work practitioners and community organizations that have been part of the country's recovery process.
Undergraduate Prerequisite
Permission of department
Graduate Prerequisite
Permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered summer semester every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Students will: • Develop cultural awareness and understanding through an in- depth exposure to an international community. • Increase knowledge about the historical roots of conflict in a historically conflicted area. • Increase knowledge about alternative methods of conflict resolution. • Develop understanding of the impact of economic injustice, oppression, and discrimination in Northern Ireland. • Reflect critically on the group experience as it relates to personal and professional values.
Topical Outline
The history of "The Troubles" in Northern Ireland Socio-political factors related to "The Troubles" and its aftermath Effects of "The Troubles" on individuals, families, and communities Models of conflict resolution Peacekeeping and reconciliation efforts The role and challenges of community policing in a deeply divided society Social work and community practice with families and children at risk in Northern Ireland The role of youth work and young people in peace-building in Northern Ireland Trauma, grief, and the helping relationship