Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title GEOHAZARDS AND RISK MITIGATION
Code ENVS410
Coordinator Dr PA Wallace
Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences
Paul.Wallace@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2019-20 Level 7 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

The module aims:
A. To examine in detail the research frontiers of understanding of diverse natural hazards;
B. To consider the objectives of risk mitigation strategies and their problems of implementation. Role Playing 'Game' to provide realistic experience of conflicting interests, uncertainty and decision making;
C. To examine the problems of dealing with uncertainties on a range of time-scales, including geological time-scales, and to review statistical methods for semi-quantitative analysis;
D. To develop consensus on future research directions that would mitigate risks from natural hazards.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the nature, origins and possible outcomes of natural hazards and be able to evaluate natural hazards and derive parameters involved in specific risk mitigation.

(LO2) Students will be able to use numerical methods for risk quantification and dealing with uncertainty., and make effective oral communications / presentations of complex data sets and complicated arguments.

(LO3) Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the processes involved for the evaluation of hazards and the preparation of risk assessments through state-of-the-art summaries.

(LO4) Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the problems of risk communication to varied audiences and the development of consensus, and be able to evaluate critically the conflicting views presented in diverse media, from web, broadcasting, books and research articles.

(S1) Teamwork

(S2) Numeracy

(S3) Ethical awareness

(S4) International awareness

(S5) Communication skills

Syllabus
 

Dealing with uncertainty and risk;
Magnetic Storms;
Earthquake hazards and prediction;
Flooding by rivers;  
Montserrat Volcanic Emergency Role Playing 'Game';
Discussion of the final exam.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: 6 x 2 hour lectures cover basic information to facilitate student activities
Attendance Recorded: Not yet decided

Teaching Method 2 - Seminar
Description: 6 x 2 hour seminars allow students to develop their own learning by researching and presenting on topics
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 3 - Group-work
Description: Role-playing game
Attendance Recorded: Not yet decided

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 12

 12

       12

 36
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 114
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Written examination There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :1  90 minutes.    50       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Seminar assessment There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :1  3 seminar contributi    50       

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.