Synopsis: This course will examine the physical processes of terrestrial, hydrological, atmospheric and biological hazards in order to develop an understanding of their causes and impact, and also raise a critical awareness of methods of hazard monitoring and mitigation. We will also examine concepts such as risk, hazard perception, vulnerability and response to hazards in order to understand hazards within their political, social and economic context thus highlighting the necessity to study environmental hazards from both a physical and human geographical standpoint.

 

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs): By the end of this course students will be able to:

• Explain the physical processes that lead to terrestrial, hydrological, atmospheric and biological hazards
• Discuss the interrelationships between different types of environmental hazard
• Explain the methods of hazard monitoring and mitigation
• Discuss the complex interrelationships between different types of human impact and environmental hazards
• Discuss the notion of a ?natural? hazard
• Explain concepts of risk, perception, vulnerability and spatial variability of hazards
• Discuss ideas of risk assessment and society response and adjustment to hazards

 

Prerequisites: This is an optional course for third and fourth year Geography students. Visiting students can attend the course provided that they have a background in Geography or Earth Sciences equivalent to entry requirements for Level 3 Geography. If you are not sure about your suitability, please contact Rhian.

 

Suggested readings: there is no textbook suggested. Students will read papers the list of which will be provided during the lectures.