This module offers an in-depth introduction to key themes and programmes related to the nutritional status of emergency-affected populations. It covers the assessment of the nutritional status of populations, the main programmes that are used to tackle acute malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, and a wide range of ongoing topics of research relevance. Content combines theory with ample opportunity to apply what has been learnt into practice through group work involving case studies and scenarios. Students will also be introduced to useful nutrition software used in the field, and key programme manager skills. The module brings in many external lecturers who are specialists in their field and who provide helpful career advice.
The overall module aim is to provide students with the core knowledge and understanding needed to address nutritional problems among emergency-affected populations.
Intended learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module a student will be able to:
- Understand the contexts in which different emergencies arise;
- Be familiar with the humanitarian landscape (key actors and their roles);
- Know which nutritional problems commonly arise in emergencies and understand why they matter;
- Know how to assess the nutritional status of populations and individuals;
- Be familiar with common nutrition-related interventions and understand how, when and in which situations/contexts to apply them;
- Appreciate the importance (and challenges) of using research and evidence to improve future policy and practice in emergency nutrition;
- Be aware of key resources, info. sources and software packages / IT tools;
- Appreciate how lessons from Nutrition in Emergencies (NiE) can be applied to other sectors and other fragile states/resource poor settings.
Mode of delivery
This module is delivered predominantly face-to-face. Where specific teaching methods (lectures, seminars, discussion groups) are noted in this module specification these will be delivered by predominantly face-to-face sessions. There will be a combination of live and interactive activities (synchronous learning) as well as self-directed study (asynchronous learning).
(Please note that the module involves full days of contact time: attendance is key to achieving learning outcomes).
Assessment
The assessment for this module has been designed to measure student learning against the module intended learning outcomes (ILOs) as listed above. The summative assessment will be a written assignment drawing on key aspects of programme design relevant to NiE, and will constitute 100% of the marks for this module. We will also provide informal, ungraded weekly quizzes for students to gauge their knowledge acquisition.
- Written assignment (writing a grant proposal for a nutrition project - 100%).
Credits
- CATS: 15
- ECTS: 7.5
Module specification
For full information regarding this module please see the module specification.
The module is primarily focused on students wishing to work in the emergency relief (humanitarian) sector on nutrition-related issues. It is also relevant to those seeking to improve population nutrition in a broader range of resource-poor settings.
Although no previous experience of Nutrition in Emergencies is necessary, a basic understanding of nutrition and health is critical to success on the module. Students with limited or no prior knowledge of these areas must discuss with the module organizer before applying.
Applications for Terms 2 D1 modules are currently open and will close on 20 January 2025. Applications should be made online via our application portal.