KINT 4015 - Effective Communication in International Affairs

The elective Effective Communication in international affairs provides hands-on training in crafting and delivering impactful messages. Through workshop-driven sessions, students engage in practical exercises covering key topics: media relations, message crafting, crisis management, speechwriting, audience analysis and social media strategies. Each 4-hour workshop combines real-world case studies, simulations, and role-playing, ensuring participants can apply theories in tangible ways. The course emphasizes strategic, ethical communication skills, preparing students to navigate today’s fast-paced political landscape and build messages that resonate with diverse audiences.

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify and discuss the mechanics of communication in an international context
• Evaluate different audiences and apply appropriate communications strategies
• Create effective communication strategies for a variety of possible cases
• Develop and create the framework for a number of different types of speeches
• Critically reflect upon and evaluate their own communication experiences

Professional Skills:

Oral and written communication, understanding multiculturalism, critical thinking, problem solving

No prerequisites

• Each class will involve regular oral feedback on the in-class simulations and exercises.
• Each class will also provide students with an opportunity to discuss and evaluate their own performance as well as the course content.
• Digital office hours will be made available during the semester for students to discuss any issues of understanding with the content of the course.
• Information on all assignments will be distributed in writing as well as discussed orally ample opportunity provided for students to seek clarification on any issues.

• Class participation (10%): This grade reflects students’ active participation during the in-class discussions and online forums throughout the semester.
• Group work and participation in simulations (40%): During the semester students will take part in a number of simulations. Students are expected to thoroughly prepare for their roles and submit reflections based upon their experiences.
• Individual work (50%): For the final assignment students will either a) create and present a communications strategy b) write and present a self-written speech. The choice and topic of assignment should be agreed with the instructor in advance.

• In Class Presence: 2 hours a week / 24 hours a semester
• Online learning activities: 1.5 hours a week / 18 hours a semester
• Reading and Preparation for Class: 2-3 hours a week / 30 hours a semester

-Research and Preparation for Group Work: 2-3 hours a week / 30 hours a semester

• Research and Writing for Individual Assessments: 2-3 hours a week / 30 hours a semester