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Learner Reviews & Feedback for Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World by University of London

4.7
stars
1,621 ratings

About the Course

The course offers a well-researched and broad-ranging primer to the United Nations system. Consisting of an introduction to the complex UN family and its history, and a series of ‘snapshots’ of key UN functions, which are used to explore important UN themes and help learners develop important analysis, communication, and policy-based skills. The course is aimed broadly at people interested in learning more about the United Nations system, assuming a level of interest but no necessary previous knowledge, whilst also offering offering sufficient up to date research and new critical perspectives that it will also be of interest to people with more expertise or academic familiarity with the topic as well. The main aim of the course is to provide this wide-ranging introduction in a self-contained, but in-depth form, alongside the important practical skills necessary to understand and discuss UN affairs, and potentially lay the groundwork for greater engagement in future – either in civil society or in further study....

Top reviews

RR

Jul 29, 2020

Really enjoyed the course. Some of the recommended reading was no longer accessible and the material was not up to date to 2020. However, it gave a good introduction to the UN and the issues involved.

SP

Aug 20, 2020

Very useful course with valuable inputs. Thank you very much for your efforts and making it available for free. Highly recommend to those who study global diplomacy, UN system and human rights.

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26 - 50 of 547 Reviews for Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World

By Rose W

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Mar 17, 2020

Very well thought out topics that have helped me to not only gain lots of knowledge on the nature and development of the UN, Diplomatic practices and procedures, etc, but the course has also developed my critical thinking especially around the topics raised in the peer-graded assignments.

By Aytan M

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Oct 26, 2017

Course materials, video, even the subtitles of video are very well designed to build a base of knowledge for those who are new to subject and makes it easy to learn. I learned many things, course materials and course program made it easy to learn. Highly recommend this course!

By Diyan D

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Sep 14, 2017

The teacher doesn't exactly.. teach per say. But the materials and sources provided through the teacher are wonderful and extremely useful. Assignments are graded via peer review, this helps you learn how others think while also learning to improve. Love this course so far!

By Ruth

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Jul 29, 2020

Really enjoyed the course. Some of the recommended reading was no longer accessible and the material was not up to date to 2020. However, it gave a good introduction to the UN and the issues involved.

By Clark G

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Oct 5, 2020

What this course was able to do well was provide a framework for the UN's functions and capabilities through examples and informative readings. You will learn more about international relations theory than you would expect, but it is all contextually appropriate. The only thing that bothered me about this course was that some readers were no longer available in the readings reference page, that is why not five stars. Greatly informative and invaluable info for a transitioning intergovernmental body that is one of the few recognized intuition that can offer peacebuilding at every stage of tension or conflict. I would recommend this course to anyone interested in knowing the formal capacity of good in the world.

By Asif S

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Nov 6, 2019

The videos could have been more interactive with more content to it. Rather it was more of an interview-styled videos which were also very brief. If I could take an example of The Magna Carta - the previous course that I took from University of London. Those videos were shot outside, with more historical background to it, more interactive and more fun to watch as you learn. As a matter of fact, even the first global diplomacy course content was similar to this one.

Interactive videos help alot in learning. I would highly recommend SOAS considers the way UOL's other department offered The Magna Carta course.

By Edwin F C F

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Sep 1, 2020

It has very good information and video resources. There is a lack of attention in the links shared to read or to watch videos, because a lot of material was not found or the video doesn't exist anymore. Also it should change the duration or length of the course and the approximation of workload per week, because it advices that readings will take 50 minutes for example and in reality this is the time for just one reading and the list has 10 or more readings, Thank you very much

By Yumiko E

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Mar 17, 2021

The course was good but it would be better if all the reading materials and videos are more recent ones and all the links are still available. Also, it would be better if we get feedback from a lecturer, especially the final assignment (with 1,000 words). I found many assignments had plagiarized from other articles on the web.

By Aditi S

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Aug 9, 2020

I haven't received my certificate with my name on it . My overall grade in 100 % and in the mobile app it is showing "you haven't completed your assignments" what is this ?

By Nabangsu C

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Apr 23, 2020

I think the course needs to update both the videos and reading materials. Since, the videos and the reading materials are somewhat lacks depths. The course should be more informative and resourceful.

By Christie R

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Jun 4, 2020

Many broken links, where videos and articles assigned could not be accessed.

By Marcello L

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Feb 5, 2024

VERY OLD CONTENT

By IVAN C U

•

Jul 25, 2024

El curso está muy bien, siento que están en un punto neutro en cuanto a la Organización de las Naciones Unidas, para que uno se ponga a pensar en lo que está bien o mal, y dan buena información, pero en algunos casos los links ya no están disponibles. Y lo que resultó peor, es que al hacer las tareas, en la penúltima semana (6 me parece) siempre me calificaban mal, y de comentario no ponían nada más que "." lo intenté al menos 12 veces, cambiando por completo el comentario, investigando, y de nada sirvió. Hoy subo mi comentario sin ganas, al menos lo he hecho 6 veces en lo que va del día, esperando a que alguien lo lea en realidad. Y no solo ponga un "." de comentario. Deberían de verificar si este "alumno" en verdad los lee, o solo lo hace con el afán de fastidiar. Que nunca vuelva a entrar a la plataforma.

By Gonzalo C M

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Nov 3, 2020

Very generic, short videos of conversations in which the speakers describe the UN in the most basic way. In addition, each week there are a high number of required readings. Instead, the people who organize the course should focus on providing a more complete overview of the UN, its main bodies and functions. The whole course seems like an introduction, like it belongs to week 1 of a far more interesting course. Unfortunately, this is not that course.

By MARIA D L A A L

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Apr 23, 2023

Me parece muy mal que los alumnos sean los encargados de calificar los trabajos ya que no tienen la capacidad ni la preparación parea ello, esto hace mas difícil obtener buenas calificaciones. Ya que califican bajo su perspectiva y pierden la empatía.

By Yadira E S

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May 27, 2020

PAGAS EL CURSO PARA OBTENER TU CERTIFICADO Y AL FINAL TE VUELVEN A COBRAR SI QUIERES EL CERTIFICADO, ES UN FRAUDE.

By Arsalan M

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Mar 27, 2024

The course "Global Diplomacy: The United Nations in the World" offers a comprehensive exploration of the United Nations (UN), its role in international relations, and its impact on global governance. Through a series of engaging lectures, readings, and discussions, the course delves into various aspects of the UN's structure, functions, and challenges, providing students with valuable insights into the complexities of diplomatic practice and international cooperation. One of the course's strengths lies in its interdisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from political science, international law, economics, and history to provide a holistic understanding of the UN's multifaceted role in addressing global issues. From peacekeeping operations and conflict resolution to humanitarian aid and human rights advocacy, the course covers a broad range of topics, allowing students to explore the diverse dimensions of diplomatic engagement and international cooperation. The course materials, including readings and multimedia resources, are carefully curated to offer students a rich and nuanced understanding of the UN's history, evolution, and contemporary relevance. Texts such as "The Future of the United Nations: Challenges and Opportunities" provide valuable insights into the UN's achievements, challenges, and prospects for reform, while case studies and real-world examples offer practical illustrations of the UN's impact on global affairs. Moreover, the course fosters critical thinking and analytical skills through thought-provoking discussions and assignments that encourage students to evaluate the effectiveness of UN policies and initiatives in addressing pressing global challenges. By engaging with complex issues such as the Security Council's veto power, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and human rights violations, students gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of diplomatic practice and the limitations of international institutions in achieving their objectives. One of the course's highlights is its emphasis on interactive learning and student engagement. Through online forums, group projects, and simulations of UN meetings, students have the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, honing their diplomatic skills and understanding the practical challenges of multilateral diplomacy. In conclusion, "Global Diplomacy: The United Nations in the World" offers a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the UN's role in shaping contemporary global affairs. By providing students with a solid foundation in the principles, practices, and challenges of international diplomacy, the course equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex dynamics of global governance and contribute to building a more peaceful, prosperous, and just world.

By Joel L G

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Oct 18, 2023

The course 'Global Diplomacy: The United Nations in the World' was an incredibly enriching experience for me. The interactive content and challenging assignments helped deepen my understanding of the complex world of global diplomacy. I was particularly impressed by the diversity of case studies and expert reports, providing practical insights into the challenges and solutions of international politics. The provided course material was of excellent quality, well-structured, and easily comprehensible. It allowed me to systematically build my knowledge and delve into the subject matter. I especially appreciate the practical orientation of the course, enabling me to directly apply theoretical concepts to real-life situations. Another highlight was the opportunities for interaction with the course instructor and tutors. Their expertise and open discussions greatly enriched my learning process. Questions were always answered comprehensively, which helped me grasp even more complex topics. In addition to acquiring new knowledge about global interrelations and the role of the United Nations, I also felt inspired to further engage with these topics. The practical approaches and the diversity of subjects covered deepened my interest in global diplomacy. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend the course 'Global Diplomacy: The United Nations in the World'. For anyone interested in international relations and the challenges of our globalized world, this course provides an excellent foundation and allows for a profound understanding of the complex world of global diplomacy.

By Aya F

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Jun 13, 2023

Dr. Plesch, with his infectious passion and profound knowledge, has this uncanny ability to transform complex theories and concepts into understandable nuggets of knowledge. His lectures were not merely one-way communications, but rather, they were engaging dialogues that encouraged us to question, debate, and explore the subject matter deeply.

One of the strengths of this course lies in its comprehensive approach toward the United Nations' role in global diplomacy. It begins by grounding us with the historical evolution of the UN and then gradually progresses into its functions, responsibilities, successes, and challenges. This systematic approach allowed me to understand the larger context and intricacies of the global diplomatic landscape.

Dr. Plesch consistently encouraged us to critically analyze the UN's successes and failures. His nuanced views on international relations, informed by his vast experience and research, were instrumental in making this course feel real and immediate. This wasn't merely an academic exploration - it felt like a guided tour into the heart of global decision-making processes.

By DEBORAH O E

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Nov 6, 2021

THIS IS A FANTASTIC COURSE, WITH GREAT PROFESSORS, INTELLECTUAL, PEOPLE WITH DIGNITY. THIS COURSE BROUGHT ME WIDER KNOWLEDGE ABOUT WHAT I NEVER KNOW IN LIFE. I JOINED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT HUMAN RIGHTS GENERALLY BECAUSE OF PAIN THIS TROUBLED WORLD CAN BRING TO HUMANITY, AND THE KNOWLEDGE I GOT BROUGHT SMILE TO MY FACE. I WANT EVERYONE WHO IS GOING THROUGH OPPRESSION, PAIN OF ALL SORT REGARDING TO RIGHT TO LIFE TO LEARN THIS COURSE, YOUR LIFE WILL NOT REMAIN THE SAME, I PROMISE! AND TO ALL MY GREAT PROFESSORS, I SAY BRAVO TO YOU ALL. KEEP IT UP! I LOVE YOU ALL.

By Wale O

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Feb 13, 2023

I have been looking for a course on Global Diplomacy or a short course on International relations that would Propel me to a high status in support of my getting into the United nations. This course has highly broaden my knowledge and skills in understanding what Diplomacy is all about and its applications within the United Nations System. My big thanks goes to the organisers for a Job well done by Inviting key experts to delivery Important issues about the United Nations...

By William D

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May 9, 2020

The course was well delivered as the videos were informative, the reading materials were diverse - giving different perspectives and dimensions. The peer review segment was also a great "skill building session" as you learn how to objectively crique a colleagues work. While some students may not give you as much feedback in their review of your work, reading others' submissions was a useful activity as you get to see how others infuse a new way of thinking in their own assignments.

By Humayun K

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May 22, 2021

I am very much delighted to complete the course : Global Diplomacy: the United Nationals in the World. I have learnt a lot from this course. It is a fantastic course for beginners. However, I could not get my certificate yet since I could not get my credit card from bank yet (from Pakistan). I am trying to use another mode (Bank Transfer) to get my certificate. But unfortunately this mode is not available now. Hope the Coursera will help me to get out from this problem.

By Yabaha S M B

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Apr 20, 2020

It was an incredible adventure i never entered before. The peer review helps in the acquisition of global diplomacy skills. It was my first course on Coursera, and indeed i enjoyed its structure and the assessment way. Specially when you learn also or when its reiterate to one that you don't always need to agree first to an idea before you give it a good assessment... Thank you to University of London for all the materials and the sharing of very valuable information...

By obioma n

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Mar 8, 2021

This course is very educative. It has broadened my knowledge about the United Nations. The course, "global diplomacy" gives a lot of insight about what the United Nations is, what it does, its ambitions, its structures and its future plans in meeting up with the global peace and security. Its ultimate plans in achieving International basic human rights.

I like this course, please how can I get a certificate for it having completed it successfully? Thanks.