Diaspora studies 101

What a diaspora is, how scholars study it, and how to read the numbers.

Level

Foundations

Who it is for

Everyone from about age 14: young people, adults, parents and newcomers. No prior knowledge is needed.

Format

Self-paced online, in plain language, with maps, figures, short quizzes and a discussion.

About 6 hours. Hours are an estimate.

What you will be able to do

• Explain what the word diaspora means and why scholars debate it.
• Tell an international migrant, a refugee and a diaspora apart.
• Read a migration figure with its measure, year and source.
• Describe the ties diasporas keep with places of origin.

Modules

1. What is a diaspora?. The history of the word and three ways scholars use it.
2. Counting people who move. Migrant stock, refugees and why figures differ.
3. Living in two places. Transnational ties: family, media, money and politics.
4. Studying diasporas well. Sources, ethics and the questions communities ask.

Assessment

A short check after each module, with feedback. Completion is recorded; it is not an accredited award.

Status

Draft lessons, written with AI assistance. A subject expert reviews them, then a copy editor, before they are published. Completion is recorded; nothing is accredited.

This course is shared by IDCDC and KCO. Course codes: IDCDC-DIA-06 (IDCDC) and KCO-DIA-09 (KCO).