Introduction to disaster risk management e-learning course

This e-course is the introductory course of the disaster risk management (DRM) e-learning program. The objective of this course is to familiarize development practitioners with contemporary concepts and practices in disaster management and contribute to the paradigm shift from re-active to pro-active approaches in this cross cutting field of development. It also aims at establishing a common language and understanding among development practitioners in order to improve the collaboration among different disciplines and integrate risk reduction considerations in development plans and decisions.

The course addresses basic questions such as: What are considered natural disasters? Where do they strike the most and how? What are the components of comprehensive DRM? It also reviews the institutional arrangements and financing mechanisms of disaster management systems, and identifies the role of national and local actors in processes related to risk assessment, mitigation and financing. This course targets general development practitioners in order to raise their awareness and sensitivity in preventing natural disasters. The built-in learning tools provide an opportunity for participants to monitor their learning progress.

The course will cover the following topics:

-Module 1: Introduction to DRM: basic concepts, players and terminology
-Module 2: Prevention, relief and reconstruction: from vulnerability and risk assessment to damage and reconstruction needs assessment
-Module 3: Introduction to safer cities, community-based DRM and best available tools to enhance resilience