MOOC supported by Orange Order leader and Coiste na nlarchimí

A six week programme focusing on using public space to express identity is the latest MOOC to be offered online – and free – to scholars around the world.

Identity, Conflict and Public Space: Contest and Transformation has been developed by Dr Dominic Bryan, from the Institute of Irish Studies, who said: “This is a hugely topical subject in many societies around the world. Here in Northern Ireland we only have to look at recent issues surroundings flags, parades and memorials.

“This free online programme, which goes live on 28 April and is accessible to anyone with internet access, examines issues around the use of public space to express identity. Ethno-political conflicts across the globe tend to differ in detail, but share common structural and political issues. Fundamental to the conflicts is the ability for groups of people to have access to representation in public space. We hope this programme will have a positive impact at home and around the world.”

Contributors include Grand Chaplain of the Orange Order, Mervyn Gibson and Legacy Officer with Coiste na nIarchimí, Séanna Walsh as well as Peter Osborne Chair of the Community Relations Council and former Chair of the Parades Commission.

Speaking about the programme Mr Gibson, said: “Identity conflict and public space are issues that affect people all over the world.  We in Northern Ireland know better than most how using public space to express identity can cause tension.  This course will be invaluable in terms of looking at these issues and understanding the importance of identity and public spaces in politics wherever they may be.”

Mr Walsh, said: “Education is key to moving forward in conflict societies and this programme provides us with a global understanding of the issues surrounding conflict and public space.  I was delighted to contribute as Queen’s continues to advance knowledge and change lives.”

Key contributions to the course are also made my Dr Milena Komarova and Dr Neil Jarman at the Institute for the Study of Conflict Transformation and Social Justice and Dr Sam Pehrson from the Centre of Identity and Intergroup Relations.

This course is the second free Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) offered by Queen’s. Over 8,000 people enrolled for the first MOOC offered by Queen’s Critical Listening for Studio Production which began in January.

To watch the trailer for the new course and find out further information on MOOC courses available at Queen’s visit: https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/identity-conflict-and-public-space-contest-and-transformation

Media inquiries to Claire O’Callaghan, Queen’s University Communications Office on Tel: +44 (0)28 9097 5391 email: c.ocallaghan@qub.ac.uk

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