Environmental Hazards and Disaster Management BSc(Hons): Learning support

Classes

Lectures are supported by:

• smaller tutorial groups and seminars;
• practical sessions (fieldwork, laboratory work and computer work); and
• looking at case studies of actual disasters.

Teaching is very interactive and we encourage you to put your thoughts and ideas forward.  Much of your work will involve looking at case studies of actual disasters.

The range of teaching formats makes learning more interesting and helps reinforce your understanding. The interactive element of the classes makes learning fun and easier because you're not only hearing different views but also taking part and discussing how to apply what's being taught.

The smaller tutorial and seminar groups ensure that you can get your tutor's individual attention, whilst the fieldwork brings the subject to life. For many students, this proves to be the highlight of the course.

Group projects

Many jobs in the hazards sector involve working in interdisciplinary teams, so we emphasise group work in our teaching. You will undertake investigation-based projects in a team with your classmates, for example. 

Teams are responsible for managing themselves, with back up from lecturing staff. Tutors will discuss any problems and make sure that you are meeting targets in set sessions.

Additional academic support

Tutors

Tutors have set office hours so it's easy to get one-to-one help and support if required. When you join the course, we assign you a personal tutor to help you throughout your time at the University. In addition, you can turn to individual module leaders or the overall course leaders. 

Student support officer

The student support officer provides an extra point of contact if you want to discuss or review your progress. 

You can go to the support officers with any issue that you feel is preventing you from achieving your full potential. They will help you to find the cause and devise an action plan.  You can also speak to a student support officer if you simply have a question and don't know who else to ask. 

Peer Assisted Learning

We support a scheme called PAL (Peer Assisted Learning). This is where trained Year 3 students run support sessions that can be attended by first years. It enables you to discuss any problems you're facing with someone close to your own age who may have recently overcome the same thing.

Web-based support

StudySpace

StudSpace is a web-based learning management system that provides access to a host of information and material to assist with your studies.

StudySpace resources vary from module to module. For example, it might include:

• subject guides;
• lecture notes;
• presentations; and
• even sound and video clips.

Other useful features are online discussion forums (bulletin boards), a virtual classroom and a drop box (for online submission of coursework).

My Kingston

My Kingston is the University's comprehensive, user-friendly intranet site, providing you with everything you need to know about student life.

My Kingston will help you get your bearings in your first few weeks at Kingston and keep you plugged into the University community throughout your time here.