The Restless World (F8508S)
The Restless World: Environmental Hazards, Risks and Disasters
Module F8508S
Module details for 2026/27.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 5
Module Outline
This interdisciplinary module introduces the environmental hazards, risks and disasters associated with
Earth’s restless natural and human systems. Topics covered include floods and droughts, earthquakes
and tsunamis, storms, mass movement, wildfires, biological hazards, volcanic eruptions, climate
change, and sea-level rise. The module includes a case study about sensitive regions of Earth’s
cryosphere (ice sheets & glaciers, sea ice, permafrost, snow), before concluding with an evaluation of
extraterrestrial hazards (e.g. impact cratering, solar storms). In each topic, we will introduce the
physical processes and environmental context, before considering their consequences on built and
natural environments, and particularly on human societies.
Module learning outcomes
To demonstrate knowledge of basic theories and concepts about
environmental hazards, risks and disasters.
To demonstrate understanding of the fundamental processes and human
responses associated with environmental hazards, risks and disasters.
To evaluate theories and concepts in hazard, risk and disaster planning,
mitigation and management.
To demonstrate an appreciation of qualitative and quantitative data
relating to environmental hazards, risks and disasters.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Based Exam | Semester 2 Assessment Week 1 Mon | 50.00% |
| Problem Set (1500 words) | Spring Semester Week 10 Thu 16:00 | 50.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Practical | 1 hour | 11000011000 |
| Spring Semester | Workshop | 1 hour | 00000000001 |
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 2 hours | 11111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
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