The Domains of Disaster Management: Constructs and Key Elements

Course Description:

DEMN520*:  This course explores the conceptual and theoretical approaches to the study of emergency and disaster management, with a particular emphasis on the ‘social construction’ of disaster. This approach builds on concepts examined in the first residency, extending our understanding of disasters beyond a hazard paradigm, and exploring the relationship between social, cultural, political and economic factors, and hazard, risk and vulnerability. Evidence of the impact of disasters on people, organizations, communities and systems provides a foundation for understanding ways in which practitioners may be able to improve outcomes. Course material is explored both conceptually as well as in applied exercises in relation to historical disaster events. (3 credits)

*pre-requisites: DEMN500, DEMN510 or approval of the Program Head.