This course builds on foundational Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) skills and introduces more advanced methods for collecting, processing, and visualising information. It combines technical learning with practical exercises to provide participants with a deeper understanding of modern OSINT practices. Participants will learn to work with both structured and unstructured data, apply advanced analytical methods, and develop clear visualisations to communicate their findings effectively.
The course is designed to expand participants’ capabilities in OSINT through advanced approaches to data collection, analysis, and visualisation. It emphasises the integration of multiple tools and data sources into cohesive workflows, enabling deeper insight and more robust research outcomes. Practical sessions reinforce learning, while a capstone project allows participants to apply all techniques in a comprehensive investigation and presentation.
Learning Outcomes:
- Apply advanced research techniques in OSINT investigations
- Evaluate diverse sources of information, including reliability, ownership, and bias
- Integrate data from multiple platforms into cohesive analytical workflows
- Handle larger datasets and perform data cleaning and preparation
- Produce visual outputs to support analysis and conclusions
- Recognise common online threats and apply safe research practices
Introduction to Advanced OSINT
- Review of OSINT fundamentals
- The intelligence cycle and its relevance to collection and analysis
Online Safety and Research Security
- Overview of common online threats
- Best practices for safe and responsible research
Advanced Research Techniques
- Collecting and handling larger datasets
- Introduction to data cleaning and preparation
- Using simple coding tools for research tasks
Data Analysis and Visualisation
- Identifying trends and patterns
- Introduction to network, time series, and geospatial perspectives
- Presenting findings through clear visualisation methods
Source Evaluation
- Understanding reliability, ownership, and bias of sources
- Assessing impact and reach of online content
Capstone Project
- Group project applying advanced OSINT techniques
- Presentation of findings with supporting data and visuals