Course Overview
Course features
Week 1: Empathy and emotion in theory
In this first week, we will focus on the concepts of empathy and emotions. How they are defined, what they look like and why they matter. The objectives for this week are to provide a theoretical and conceptual grounding in the ideas and themes we will cover over the course.
Week 2: Empathy in organisational practice
This week we will turn to how these theoretical ideas and concepts translate into practice.We will look simultaneously at empathy as something that can help within the work place and aid the process of making policy. But, also, how it can help communicate and engage with diverse audiences about policy.
Week 3: Navigating the politics and limitations of empathy and emotion
The final week will centre on the nuances of empathy and emotions and identifying the challenges and constraints on incorporating them into policymaking practice. This week is designed to lean towards the philosophical and political, encouraging you to consider how the ideas we have discussed and studied so far translate into your professional environments.
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this module, students will be able to:
- Examine how emotions are a feature of politics and policy making.
- Compile a set of practices and develop a professional toolkit to incorporate empathy more effectively into policy-making.
- Analyse the potential political implications and limitations of empathy in policy.
- Evaluate the diverse ways in which empathy can inform policy.
Entry requirements
This short course is for mid-career professionals. Standard entry requirements are a 2:1 degree plus 3 years of relevant work experience. Applicants without a 2:1 or higher degree are welcome to apply and typically require 5+ years of relevant work experience.
Assessment
One written assignment, plus participation in webinars and discussion forums.
Our modules offer high levels of interaction with regular points of assessment and feedback. Each four week module is worth five Master's level academic credits and includes three webinars with a King's lecturer and peer group of global professionals.