Teaching Terrorism and Counterterrorism: Activities for the Classroom

How should we teach terrorism and counterterrorism in ways that challenge, rather than reproduce, dominant narratives? This timely and innovative book offers practical, classroom-tested activities designed to engage students in critical learning about terrorism and counter-terrorism. Bringing together leading scholars, it reimagines the classroom as a space of inquiry, experimentation, and dialogue, where students are encouraged to question assumptions and rethink established frameworks. Contributors examine the pedagogical, ethical, and political stakes of teaching terrorism and security from critical perspectives. Through a range of innovative approaches—including visual and creative methods, the use of technology to interrogate power structures, and the incorporation of videogames and playful tools—chapters demonstrate how to actively reframe the study of political violence. Grounded in real-world examples, the book also reflects on the future of teaching in an era of AI and digitalisation, arguing that meaningful transformation depends less on the tools we adopt than on the pedagogical commitments that shape their use. Teaching Terrorism and Counterterrorism is an essential resource for instructors of terrorism, counter-terrorism, and security studies. It will also appeal to scholars and students in international relations, security studies, and public policy seeking fresh, practical ways to teach complex and sensitive topics.