Module GEOG40315: RISK, SCIENCE AND COMMUNICATION

Department: Geography

GEOG40315: RISK, SCIENCE AND COMMUNICATION

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• The aim of this module is to provide an overview of the methods used in risk research, and training in the generic skills that risk research requires, including risk communication and public engagement. Its purpose is to provide generic skills on science, media and communication as well as specific methodological training. Thus, this module will provide a high level overview of the natural, engineering and social science skills used in risk research as well as specific training in communication skills, including written and oral communications and public engagement in relation to risk.

Content

• There are two interrelated blocks to the course
• The first block focusses on theoretical aspects of risk communication, including communication theory; risk perception; hazard uncertainty; and the different ways in which 'knowledge' can be produced to improve our understanding and management of risk. This block will also consider the role the media play in communicating and (re-)framing risk, and how research design and risk communication can be most effective when considered together.
• The second block considers core methods used in risk research and communication. This will include planning and executing successful projects; key quantitative and qualitative research skills; and coproduction of knowledge.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will understand the issues surrounding how risk is communicated as well as its relationship to the practice of research and the inherent issues that result.
• Students will understand the range of methods used to understand risk and their relationship to the core concepts introduced in the Understanding Risk module.

• Students will understand the critical role played by problem framing in researching risk and the ethical questions that result from different kinds of framings and methods.
• Students will be able to develop different strategies for researching and communicating risk, according to the issue being investigated and, in particular, in relation to hazard and risk uncertainty and how this affects our ability to develop effective risk communication strategies.
• Students will be able to evaluate the merits and disadvantages of different forms of risk communication as a means of developing sensible risk communication plans.

• Written communication
• Oral presentation

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Each student has 22 hours of contact time and 128 hours of independent study. Contact hours comprise sessions relating to the two interrelated blocks noted above:
• Block 1 focusses on communication skills and strategies’ including communication theory and its relation to risk and risk perception, particular in terms of media influence and framing risk research; as well as generic writing, presentation and research-project planning skills. This will comprise of 3 x 2 hour lecture/seminars and 2 x 2 hour workshops (focusing upon practical oral presentation skills). This block will be examined by oral presentation (podcast; example podcasts from previous years will be made available to students. Where appropriate, students can obtain further assistance via the Durham Centre for Academic Development).
• Block 2 considers core methods used in risk research and communication, comprising 5 x 2 hour lectures/seminars and 2 x 1 hour tutorials. This block will be examined by a take home examination activity.
• Self-directed learning will be supported by reading lists, allowing students to build on the topics and skills highlighted during the lecture course. In addition, students will be expected to work individually and in groups to prepare for specific sessions during the course. The content and nature of these sessions will be clearly communicated to students.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

There is one formative assignment for this module. Students will submit a topic and list of themes and theories (<1 page of A4) that they will discuss during their summative podcast assessment. Students will be provided with written feedback on these topics/themes. Oral formative feedback during tutorials regarding written work to prepare for the reflective essay. NB: formative work is a compulsory part of this module.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University