Personally, I find natural disasters very interesting. I had always enjoyed geography lessons most when it involved a case study on natural disasters and was keen to learn more about them. Currently a disaster can be defined as “a sudden, calamitous event that seriously disrupts the functioning of a community or society and causes human, material, and economic or environmental losses that exceed the community’s or society’s ability to cope using its own resources. Though often caused by nature, disasters can have human origins” (International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies).
For our first workshop we were focusing on the political and economic side of disasters by looking at the differences between the earthquake in Haiti in 2010 and Japanese Earthquake in 2011. What we discovered was the drastic difference in preparation, role of the government, media coverage, effects, aid and recovery. We discussed the possibility of the impact humans might have on the influx in disasters over the last couple of decades.
In the second workshop we were focusing on the science aspect of natural disasters in particular volcanoes. There were several stations set up around the lab. For example, creating a volcanic eruption using vinegar, baking soda and washing up liquid and making a fossil using clay and dinosaur moulds etc.
We were also given a directed study task for which we had to create three mind maps on our actions before, during and after if an earthquake were to hit Ayr. You can find the mind maps on the following padlets:
Before – https://padlet.com/louise_mckie/5ywrii0qxnoc
During – https://padlet.com/louise_mckie/5x6czjo0qu26
After – https://padlet.com/louise_mckie/lui4lesgijge
We also were to prepare a microteaching presentation in groups on one natural disaster. Our group received the topic of ‘Floods’. (see below)
The skills I obtained during these inputs:
- Critical thinking skills
- Science skills
- Observing
- Practical work
- Independent and group work
- Wider contextual reading
- Research skills
- Presentation skills
These skills can be applied within the classroom. I have gained confidence through science, group discussion and presenting information in front of others. I have also improved my research skills and ability to select relevant information. I have also been able to work individually and be critical of my own work.
