Applied Humanitarian Assistance: From Theory to Practice

This unit consists of an intensive campus based module that introduces key issues in humanitarian contexts. While these issues will inevitably change over time, the unit will address current and emerging issues that are affecting humanitarian responses.  The located intensive learning will include visits to local case study areas to explore implementation, political, geographic, organisational, and power issues involved in humanitarian and emergency responses to complex disaster situations.  Students will also be introduced to international case studies of humanitarian responses and the contexts in which they occur.
 
The second aspect to this unit will be delivered via Cloud (online) and include the use of virtual case studies to examine the issues of disaster preparedness and the Disaster Risk Management Cycle (DRMC) across different physical and cultural contexts.  We will also examine the role of different stakeholders in pre-disaster and post-disaster phases and how community development principles can inform and strengthen the processes involved.  Further, we will explore the role of the media in disasters and emergency response. Finally, the role of response coordination processes will be critically analysed to strengthen understandings of the importance of including all stakeholders including local communities to achieve the best outcomes possible in all phases.

At the completion of this unit, successful students can:
ULO1: As a team, analyse and synthesize information on humanitarian needs and context from a simulated emergency scenario and be able to develop and communicate key operational and strategic issues to donors, government, community and media using written, personal and digital means.
ULO2: Demonstrate critical and strategic thinking to inform and influence humanitarian practice taking into account sector policies, dynamics, dilemmas and principles of best practice.
ULO3: Self-reflect and evaluate your role and contribution as an individual and team member throughout the unit and in particular during the team scenario task of conducting an assessment of humanitarian need and developing an appropriate strategic response plan.

All students are required to attend a 5-day intensive (8 hours per day) at Burwood (Melbourne) and will also be required to complete 18 hours of self-paced preparatory work in the three weeks prior to the intensive.
Intensive located learning will engage students through visits to local case study sites, guest speakers from the Humanitarian and Emergency Management sectors, classes and seminars.
This unit will also engage students in enhanced online presence through CloudDeakin. Students will undertake online exercises, case studies, virtual simulations, cloud concept presentations and student-led discussions.

Journal 30%, 1500 words
Literature Review, 30%, 1500 words
Group Assignment, 40%, 2000 words

Your unit learning resources are provided via CloudDeakin.