This module provides an overview of disaster management principles, terminology, and historical perspectives. It covers the different types of disasters and their impact on communities, as well as the role of various stakeholders in disaster response and recovery.

Faculty: Disaster Management
Course Name: Crisis Communications
Course Code:  DMCC
Duration: 8 Hours
Mode: Face-to-face
Level: Professional

Prerequisites: Participants must be at least 18 years of age to attend and have completed The Incident Command System within the last six months.

Packaging: This course is delivered over one (1) day.

Instructional Strategies: This course combines lecture-based instruction with practical application. Instructional strategies include pre-reading, lectures, discussions, demonstrations, practical application, simulation, and presentations.

Effort Breakdown: 4 lecture hours, 4 practical hours

Certification: Participants receive a certificate of completion.

MANDATORY UNITS:

1. Internal communication strategies for organizations
2. External communication strategies with stakeholders
3. Media relations and public information management
4. Crisis communication tools and technologies
5. Training and exercises for crisis communication
6. Evaluation and improvement of crisis communication plans

On successful completion of the course, participants should be able to:

1. Develop internal communication strategies for organizations, including the creation and implementation of communication plans and protocols to ensure effective communication during crises.
2. Implement external communication strategies with stakeholders, such as government agencies, media outlets, and the public, to maintain transparency and manage public perception during crises.
3. Manage media relations and public information effectively, including the use of techniques for delivering clear and consistent messages to the media and the public.
4. Utilize crisis communication tools and technologies, such as social media monitoring and mass notification systems, to enhance communication and information dissemination during crises.
5. Conduct training and exercises for crisis communication, including mock press conferences and media interviews, to prepare for and respond to crisis situations effectively.
6. Evaluate and improve crisis communication plans based on lessons learned from past incidents, ensuring continuous improvement and readiness for future crises.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:

1. Attendance Requirement: 100% attendance is mandatory to pass the course. Reasonable adjustments will be made where practicable.
2. Physical Fitness Requirement: A certain level of fitness and strength is necessary to fulfill duties in emergency situations. Failure based on physical criteria is not discriminatory but practical for the role's demands.
3. Practical Assessments: Formative and summative practical assessments are conducted throughout the course. Summative assessments include simulations and mini-codes. Competent performance of all skills is essential to pass.

Note: The assessment criteria aim to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of both theoretical and practical competencies, promoting a well-rounded and capable Disaster Management Provider.