GV2HAZNU-Natural Hazards

Module Provider: Geography and Environmental Science
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Alison Macleod
Email: alison.macleod@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module introduces and investigates the origin, frequency and impacts of a range of natural hazards. These will be considered at both the local and global geographical scales.

Aims:

This module aims to introduce the scientific basis of a range of natural hazards, discuss their effects, and consider hazard prediction, mitigation, and prevention. This will be facilitated through the use of well-documented case studies of past natural hazard events/disasters.

Assessable learning outcomes:

On completion of this module it is expected that a student will be able to: * Describe and explain the nature and variety of natural hazards * Provide a detailed and reasoned account of how hazards arise, for example from vulcanicity, seismicity, land instability, wildfires,  snow avalanches and glacial lake outbursts * Discuss the key aspects of permafrost engineering hazards and drylands hazards * Critically evaluate different approaches to hazard mitigation and management * Outline th e nature of historical hazard events and assess the lessons learned from them.

Additional outcomes:

The module also aims to encourage team working, practical observation and recording skills, essay writing under exam conditions. 

Outline content:

The unit begins with an overview of the nature of natural hazards, and this is then followed by lectures on a range of topics relating to natural hazards, that may include: volcanic hazards, earthquake hazards and tsunamis, hazards of land instability and lake outburst, dryland hazards, permafrost and associated engineering hazards, wildfires, snow or ice avalanche hazards. Associated practical sessions will, for example, include investigations of slope instabilities, earthquake waves and the ir effects, volcanic rocks and minerals.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures and laboratory and computer-based practical sessions.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	15
Practicals classes and workshops	8
Guided independent study:
Other	77
Total hours by term	100	0	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:

2 hours

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-examination in Summer

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 2 December 2021