NSC 1906 - THE SCIENCE OF NATURAL HAZARDS

credits: 6.0
This course is designed as an introductory science course for students majoring in subjects outside of the sciences. It will provide a hands-on, in-depth, investigation of natural hazards, their geography, and their impact on society. Focus will be on the physical processes (e.g. underlying physics, chemistry, geology) of selected hazards, their monitoring, and the strategies that have been developed to minimize the effects of natural disasters. Objectives: A) Describe how science is used to investigate, understand, monitor, and lessen the effects of natural events that adversely impact society; B) Display an appreciation of the force and power of nature and how there is no way to predict or prevent these naturally occurring events; C) Demonstrate the ability to make informed decisions regarding relocation, home buying, insurance, preparedness, and social responsibility. Method of Instruction: Lecture, laboratory, discussion, field trips, demonstrations, videos, case studies, real data access and analysis. Method of Evaluation: Two exams (30%); Weekly quizzes (20%); Laboratory write-ups (30%); and Presentation on field trip experiences (20%). Meets *PLS Distribution Requirement.