1. On completion of this module, you will understand the nature of natural hazards and their social context Knowledge and Understanding

2. On completion of this module, you will understand data collection techniques and approaches for evaluating and managing natural hazards
Application, Knowledge and Understanding

3. On completion of this module, you will be able to synthesise material from a range of sources to develop and support a coherent written argument
Enquiry, Application

4. On completion of this module, you will be able to critically analyse and address questions related to natural hazards
Analysis, Application

5. On completion of this module, you will be able to express and communicate knowledge clearly Communication

One end-of-module class test comprising one seen essay answer from a selection (50%) and one short answer section for which all questions should be completed (50%)

The class test will address Learning Outcomes 1-5 listed above.

PLEASE NOTE ALTERNATIVE ASSESSMENTS FOR Semester 1 2020/21 DUE TO COVID-19 AS FOLLOWS: Assignment (50%) & Class Test (50%)

This module discusses physical characteristics of, social effects of, and management responses to natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, mass movements, severe storms, fires and flooding. A variety of aspects of hazards will be discussed including predisposing factors, thresholds and triggering mechanisms, physical processes, prediction and probability theory of events; hazard characterisation (speed of onset, timing, frequency, duration, magnitude, scale); impacts; monitoring, evaluation; risk assessment of hazards; hazard responses, social vulnerability, resilience, risk education and risk communication and the role of political, economic and social factors in determining the degree of risk. These concepts will be developed and illustrated through a range of case studies taken from different hazards, notably earthquakes, volcanic activity, severe storms and mass movements.

The module will be delivered through a combination of:
(a) Lecture-based and discussion sessions outlining key thematic content;
(b) Structured workshop sessions based on a series of case studies, which apply and develop key principles; these will involve the discussion, analysis and interpretation of text and audio-visual materials and permit students to self-evaluate their understanding of module materials;
(c) Independent learning through directed reading and assessment.

Smith, K. 2013. Environmental Hazards: Assessing Risk and Reducing Disaster (6th edition). Routledge. (MAIN TEXT)
Bosher, L. and Chmutina, K. 2017. Disaster Risk Reduction for the Built Environment. Wiley Blackwell.
McGuire, B. Mason, I. and Kilburn, C. 2002. Natural Hazards and Environmental Change. Arnold.
Wamsler, C. 2014. Cities, Disaster Risk and Adaptation. Routledge.
Wisner, B., Blaikie, P., Cannon, T. and Davies, I. 2004. At Risk: Natural Hazards, People’s Vulnerability and Disasters (2nd Edition). Routledge.

University Library, internet and email facilities, Blackboard or equivalent VLE.