OADI 2420 - The Politics of Influence – Understanding Political Communication

***UPDATED for 2026/27***

This course examines political communication as a central instrument of power in contemporary governance, diplomacy, and conflict. The course explores how communication operates in hybrid media systems, digital environments, and geopolitical confrontations, where narratives, disinformation, and strategic messaging shape political outcomes.

Particular attention is given to information warfare and disinformation in contemporary conflicts. Students will analyze how communication strategies are deployed to influence domestic and international audiences.

The course combines theory with practice through policy briefs, simulations, and strategic exercises..

Learning Outcomes

• Map out the actors involved: politicians, journalists, strategists, social media influencers.
• Analyze how political narratives, slogans, and storytelling shape opinion.
• Apply theory to practice through role-plays and campaign communication simulations.
• Analyze political communication as a tool of power and strategic influence.
• Understand and evaluate disinformation and information warfare strategies.
• Compare Western and non-Western approaches to communication and influence.
• Design strategic communication under crisis conditions.
• Critically engage in debates on ethics, propaganda, and democracy.

Professional Skills

• Strategic communication planning
• Media landscape analysis
• Public speaking and messaging
• Crisis response communication
• AI-enabled communication ethics and practice

None. Prior familiarity with political science or media studies is an asset but not required.

Students will receive written feedback for essays and oral comments during presentation sessions. Individual consultations are available on request. Mid-semester feedback will be offered in week 6.

• Group Presentation 40%
• Practice Work 1/social media simulation 20%
• Practice Work 2/spin 25%
• Class Participation 15%

• In Class Presence: 4 hours a week / 24 hours a semester
• Online Learning Activities: 1 hour a week / 12 hours a semester
• Reading and Preparation for Class: 2.5 hours a week / 30 hours a semester
• Research and Preparation for Group Work: 1.5 hours a week / 18 hours a semester
• Research and Writing for Individual Assessments: 3.5 hours a week / 42 hours a semester
• Other (office hours, optional tutorials, reflection): 1 hour a week / 12 hours a semester