GEOG40415: Risk Frontiers

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• The aim of this module is to expose students to some important and emerging frontiers in climate, hazards, risk and security research. This may include seminars, workshops and/or themed conferences organised in collaboration with the Institute of Hazards, Risk & Resilience (IHRR). Exposure to a range of research will offer generic training in skills of interpreting, criticising and synthesising emerging research. Many climate, hazards and security sectors have an appetite for using cutting-edge knowledge and interdisciplinary approaches. This module provides students with additional breadth in the fields of climate, hazards, risk and security.

• Students will attend research events, usually in a seminar format, with one or multiple themed sets of speakers. These seminars will provide students with the opportunity to meet and interact with leading researchers and practitioners in fields of climate change, security, hazards, risk and resilience.
• Students will also participate in three workshops focussed on broader skills development, such as writing for a general audience, presentation skills, essay writing and critical review.
• A further Careers in Risk workshop will enable students to learn about and discuss career development and risk-related work opportunities.

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• Students will have an in-depth understanding of a range of contrasting topics in climate change, environmental hazards, risk and security.
• Students will develop a detailed and critical understanding of one topic presented as part of one of the research seminars.

Subject-specific Skills:

• Students will be able to engage in constructive criticism of diverse topics and approaches to climate change, hazards and security.
• Students will be able to identify and synthesis the core messages emerging from diverse topics and approaches.

Key Skills:

• Written communication, notably critical synthesis of core messages.
• Deliberative and discursive skills in response to oral presentations.

• This module is based upon research seminars and workshops across Terms 1 and 2, which students will be required to attend.
• Students will also participate in three workshops focussed on critical analysis, synthesis and communication skills. Indicative topics include: summarising research for lay audiences, writing abstracts, visualising research for different audiences, and oral presentation skills (e.g. 'elevator pitches').
• A Careers in Risk workshop invites alumni and practitioners to share their career trajectories and advice. This workshop provides students with career development support and exposure to how research, data analysis and communication skills are used in a range of sectors.
• Summative Assessment: The summative assessment will be a critical, in-depth essay based around one aspect of a seminar topic. Students will receive formative feedback supporting this assessments, which may include feedback on an initial essay outline or synopsis.

Continuous oral feedback will be given during workshops and seminar Q&As. Formal written feedback is provided on a critical essay plan or short synopsis. Informal feedback will be provided on workshop activities throughout the module.

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