EARTH 101Natural Disasters: Hollywood vs. Reality

3 credits · Earth Sciences · Penn State

"Natural Disasters: Hollywood vs. Reality" investigates a variety of natural hazards and disasters. We use the popular media as a starting point to motivate discussions and development of tools for analyzing the causes of disasters. Using excerpted segments of 'disaster films' in conjunction with scientific treatments, the class identifies the causes, consequences and public perceptions of natural hazards. Small group discussions and cooperative research activities held 'real time' in the classroom are a major component of this course. The goal is to help students develop both an understanding of natural hazards and disasters, and enhance their understanding of scientific approaches to problem solving.