Risk & Crisis Communication (3 ECTS)

What it is about

You will learn the basics and practical applications of risk and crisis communication from a social science perspective. In the module you will study how communication strategies are developed and implemented in crises, what role media and political decisions play, and how risk perception works. In the end you will understand the typical phases of crisis management (pre-crisis, crisis response, post-crisis) and you will be able to apply central concepts and theories of crisis communication.

What you will be able to do

• Recognize what makes a crisis
• Familiarity with key concepts and theories of risk and crisis communication
• Knowledge of the typical phases of crisis management
• Understanding the interactions between communication strategies, political decision-making, and public attitude
• Apply theoretical knowledge to practical communication situations

What the module consists of

• VorlesungIntroduction to theory and practice of risk and crisis communication; delivery through slides, presentations, questions and short exercises

Teaching method

• VorlesungConveying the theoretical foundations and practical applications
• PräsentationenDeepening through student contributions and demonstration of content
• DiskussionenEnabling exchange and critical reflection on content
• PflichtlektüreSupplementing lecture content with selected texts
• Film-/Video‑ScreeningsIllustrating practical examples and communication situations
• Kurze Übungen/FragenApplication and deepening of what was learned during the session