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Bibi van den Berg and Ruth Prins

Security and safety challenges rank among the most pressing issues of modern times. Challenges such as, cyber-crime, terrorism, and environmental disasters impact the lives of millions across the globe. These issues also rank high on the agenda of politicians, international organizations and businesses. They also feature prominently in the public conscience and in governmental policies.

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Security and safety challenges rank among the most pressing issues of modern times. Challenges such as, cyber-crime, terrorism, and environmental disasters impact the lives of millions across the globe. These issues also rank high on the agenda of politicians, international organizations and businesses. They also feature prominently in the public conscience and in governmental policies.

In the current, interconnected world, security challenges are becoming increasingly complex. Facilitated by developments as globalization and the spread of networked and hyper-connected technologies, new safety and security challenges arise and impact local, national, regional and international levels, which dramatically increases their complexity and scale. As such, solutions to contemporary security challenges require a wide array of actors operating on multiple levels of governance.

The course will introduce you to the broad theme of security and safety in an increasingly complex world. Together we will search for answers to important questions: what is security and safety? How can we understand complex modern-day security and safety challenges? And how do we deal with such challenges? This course combines scholarly inquiry from multiple disciplines (ranging from terrorism studies, to crisis management, to medical science) with real-life cases to explore and understand complex modern-day safety and security challenges.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
Welcome to the first module! This module features an introduction to the course and explains the main topic addressed, as well as introduces you to the teaching staff. Before you start with studying we invite you to first go through our introductory resources and introduce yourself in the forum to meet your fellow learners. If you encounter any difficulties while studying, please let us know in the forum. For technical difficulties or questions regarding the course certificate, you can always contact the Coursera Learner Helpdesk. Good luck and we hope you will enjoy the course!
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Global Challenges and Wicked Problems
In this module you will learn about global challenges. In the modern, interconnected world, security and safety challenges are increasingly complex, impacting local, national, regional and international levels. You will also learn why many of these challenges can be labeled as 'wicked problems'; they are challenges which are difficult or impossible to solve because they have many different causes, are difficult to describe, and don’t have a single 'right' answer.
Safety and Security
In this module, you will learn more about safety and security. Safety and security have now become buzz words for society, marking the top of the agendas of politicians, businesses and many other actors worldwide. But what do these concepts mean? In this module we address the difference between safety and security. In addition, you will learn about one of the most important approaches to dealing with issues of safety and security, namely risk management.
Perspectives and Levels
In this module, you will learn more about the different actors and levels of governance involved in contemporary security and safety challenges. You will also learn a three-step approach which can be used to unravel modern-day safety and security challenges in an academic way.
Case Studies
In this module, we will take a closer look at three specific cases of security and safety. Using the three-step approach from the previous module, we will unravel these cases to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of modern-day safety and security challenges.
Security and Safety in Practice
In this module, we will continue to take a closer look at real-life cases of security and safety. Through interviews with three experts, we will look at the different actors and perspectives that are involved in the management of a specific type of security incident, namely a breach of cyber security.
Case Study: Explore, Understand, Do.
In this final module, you will be asked to apply all the knowledge from the previous modules towards unraveling a real-life safety and security case. Using the three-step approach of Explore, Understand and Do from previous modules, you will analyze how this case unfolded, which actors and specific levels of governance were involved, and apply various academic perspectives.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Examines safety and security challenges, which is highly relevant for social and political issues
Explores modern-day safety and security challenges, which is useful for understanding current events
Teaches a three-step approach to analyze safety and security challenges, which is a useful problem-solving tool
Led by instructors with experience in the topic, which adds credibility
Requires prior knowledge in the subject area, which may not be suitable for beginners
Involves interviews with experts, which adds depth to the course material

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Reviews summary

Positive course experience

Learners largely express satisfaction with this course. Students remark on how helpful and excellent it is. Learners say they learned a lot and found the material pertinent to their field.
Many reviews give positive feedback.
"excellent course"
"Very helpful."
"I learned a lot as pertains my field of career am in now."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Security & Safety Challenges in a Globalized World with these activities:
Review safety and security concepts
Refresh your knowledge of safety and security concepts to build a stronger foundation for the course.
Show steps
  • Revisit key concepts from previous courses or readings on safety and security.
  • Identify areas where your knowledge is weak and focus on reviewing those topics.
  • Test your understanding by completing practice questions or quizzes.
Review Safety and Security Terminology
Start your learning journey in this course by taking the time to review the fundamental safety and security concepts and definitions.
Browse courses on Safety
Show steps
  • Review glossary and course materials for key terms.
  • Engage in online forums or discussions to clarify your understanding.
  • Complete practice exercises that test your comprehension of the terminology.
Brush up on risk management techniques
Strengthen your risk management skills to better assess and mitigate potential threats to safety and security.
Browse courses on Risk Management
Show steps
  • Review materials from previous courses or industry resources on risk management principles and techniques.
  • Complete practice exercises or case studies to apply risk management concepts to real-world scenarios.
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Participate in online discussion forums
Engage with your peers to exchange ideas, ask questions, and deepen your understanding of course concepts.
Show steps
  • Join online discussion forums or platforms related to the course topics.
  • Actively participate in discussions by sharing your perspectives, asking questions, and responding to others.
  • Respect diverse opinions and engage in constructive dialogue to foster a positive learning environment.
Explore case studies of modern-day security challenges
Gain a deeper understanding of the complex nature of modern-day security challenges by analyzing real-world case studies.
Browse courses on Case Studies
Show steps
  • Identify reputable sources or platforms that provide in-depth case studies on security challenges.
  • Select a case study that aligns with your interests or areas for improvement.
  • Thoroughly analyze the case study, paying attention to the context, challenges, and solutions implemented.
  • Summarize your findings and identify key takeaways that can be applied to your own understanding of security challenges.
Explore Security and Safety Case Studies
Deepen your understanding of real-world safety and security challenges through guided tutorials that explore case studies.
Browse courses on Safety
Show steps
  • Select a case study of interest from a provided repository.
  • Review the case study materials, including news articles, reports, and expert opinions.
  • Work through a guided tutorial that prompts you to analyze the case study using the methods taught in the course.
  • Present your analysis in a written report or online forum discussion.
Develop a presentation on a chosen security topic
Solidify your understanding of a particular security topic by researching, organizing, and presenting your findings.
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  • Choose a specific security topic that you are interested in or that aligns with your career goals.
  • Conduct thorough research to gather relevant information and data on your chosen topic.
  • Organize your findings into a logical flow and create visual aids to support your presentation.
  • Practice delivering your presentation to improve your confidence and clarity.
Collaborate on Safety and Security Scenarios
Enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving skills by collaborating with peers to address safety and security scenarios.
Browse courses on Safety
Show steps
  • Form a study group with fellow learners.
  • Identify a safety or security scenario for analysis.
  • Research and gather relevant information about the scenario.
  • Brainstorm and discuss different approaches to addressing the scenario.
  • Develop a collaborative solution and present it to the group for feedback.
Engage in volunteer work related to safety or security
Gain practical experience and apply your knowledge by volunteering for organizations involved in safety or security initiatives.
Show steps
  • Identify organizations or initiatives in your community that focus on safety or security.
  • Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities that align with your interests.
  • Actively participate in volunteering activities and contribute your skills and knowledge.
  • Reflect on your experiences and identify how they have enhanced your understanding of safety and security challenges.
Volunteer with a Safety or Security Organization
Gain practical experience and support a worthy cause by volunteering with an organization dedicated to safety or security.
Browse courses on Safety
Show steps
  • Research and identify safety or security organizations in your area.
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Participate in volunteer activities, such as community outreach, training programs, or disaster response.
  • Reflect on your volunteer experience and document your learnings.
Develop a security plan for a specific scenario
Apply your knowledge of security principles to develop a comprehensive plan for managing risks and ensuring safety in a specific scenario.
Browse courses on Scenario Planning
Show steps
  • Choose a specific scenario, such as a natural disaster, cyber attack, or security breach, to focus on.
  • Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities associated with the scenario.
  • Develop a comprehensive security plan that outlines strategies, procedures, and resources for mitigating risks and responding to incidents.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of your security plan by testing it in a simulated or real-world environment.
Create a Safety and Security Awareness Campaign
Apply your knowledge to a meaningful project by creating a safety and security awareness campaign that can make a positive impact.
Browse courses on Safety
Show steps
  • Identify a specific safety or security issue that you want to address.
  • Develop a campaign message and strategy to raise awareness about the issue.
  • Create visual materials, such as posters, flyers, or videos, to convey your message.
  • Distribute your campaign materials through social media, online forums, or community events.
  • Monitor and evaluate the impact of your campaign and make adjustments as needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Security & Safety Challenges in a Globalized World will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Security Consultant
Security Consultants advise businesses and organizations to help them improve their cybersecurity, reduce their risk of data breaches, and develop plans to respond to security incidents. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies. This course may also prepare you for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, which is a globally recognized credential for security professionals.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analysts are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They analyze and interpret security data, and develop and implement security measures to protect against threats. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies. This course may also prepare you for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, which is a globally recognized credential for security professionals.
Information Security Consultant
Information Security Consultants advise businesses and organizations on how to improve their cybersecurity. They assess the security of systems and networks, develop security policies and procedures, and implement security solutions. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.
Information Assurance Analyst
Information Assurance Analysts work with organizations to protect their information from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They develop and implement security policies and procedures, and monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these policies and procedures. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.
Cybersecurity Engineer
Cybersecurity Engineers design and implement cybersecurity solutions. They work with stakeholders to identify security threats, develop security architectures, and implement security measures. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.
Risk Manager
Risk Managers identify, assess, and mitigate risks that could impact an organization. They work with stakeholders to develop and implement risk management plans, and monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these plans. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.
Security Engineer
Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security systems to protect networks, systems, and data. They work with stakeholders to identify security requirements, develop security architectures, and implement security measures. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies. This course may also prepare you for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, which is a globally recognized credential for security professionals.
Security Architect
Security Architects design and implement security architectures to protect organizations from cyber threats. They work with stakeholders to identify security requirements, develop security strategies, and implement security solutions. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.
Security Manager
Security Managers oversee the security of organizations. They develop and implement security policies and procedures, and manage security teams. They work with stakeholders to identify security risks, develop security plans, and ensure compliance with security regulations. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.
Security Analyst
Security Analysts monitor and analyze security systems to detect and respond to security breaches. They work with stakeholders to identify security threats, develop security measures, and implement security solutions. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies. This course may also prepare you for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, which is a globally recognized credential for security professionals.
Security Specialist
Security Specialists work with organizations to develop and implement security strategies. They assess the security of systems and networks, develop security policies and procedures, and implement security solutions. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.
Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret information to provide decision-makers with insights into national security threats. They work with a variety of sources, including human intelligence, signals intelligence, and open-source intelligence. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.
IT Auditor
IT Auditors review and evaluate the security of computer systems and networks. They work with stakeholders to identify security risks, develop security controls, and ensure compliance with security regulations. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.
Emergency Manager
Emergency Managers develop and implement plans to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies. They work with stakeholders to identify potential hazards, develop mitigation strategies, and coordinate emergency response efforts. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.
Forensic Analyst
Forensic Analysts investigate computer crimes and cyberattacks. They collect and analyze evidence from computers and other electronic devices to identify the perpetrators of these crimes. This course can help you understand the challenges facing modern-day security, and provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as global challenges and wicked problems, safety and security, perspectives and levels, and case studies.

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Security & Safety Challenges in a Globalized World.
Stephen Graham offers a comprehensive analysis of the concept of security in the 21st century. is especially useful for understanding the complex and evolving nature of security challenges in a globalized world.
This comprehensive reader provides a wide range of perspectives on global security. It is an excellent resource for understanding the different ways in which security challenges are conceptualized and addressed.
Marc Sageman offers a thought-provoking analysis of the future of terrorism. must-read for anyone interested in understanding the evolving threat of terrorism in a globalized world.
Marilyn K. Russell provides a detailed account of the Hurricane Katrina disaster. valuable resource for understanding the challenges of disaster preparedness and recovery.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of security studies. It valuable resource for understanding the different approaches to security and the challenges facing the world today.
This report provides a detailed analysis of the world's risks. It valuable resource for understanding the different types of risks facing the world today and the challenges of risk management.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the global risks. It valuable resource for understanding the different types of risks facing the world today and the challenges of risk management.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the human security. It valuable resource for understanding the different types of security challenges facing the world today and the challenges of human security.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the world's children. It valuable resource for understanding the different types of challenges facing children today and the challenges of child protection.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the world's health. It valuable resource for understanding the different types of health challenges facing the world today and the challenges of global health.

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