We ask the question “Are we safe?” consciously and subconsciously all the time.  In fact, we evaluate the hazards and risks of any situation, and then we make assumptions before we act.  How do we evaluate hazards and assess risks to validate our assumptions? What are the underlying human-human, human-matter or matter-matter interactions in the realms of environment, health and technology?  What are the economical, social and ethical issues involved? This course introduces students to risk situations in everyday living in aspects related to environment, health and technology. Students are expected to investigate risk perception in terms of technical, psychological and cultural aspects. Four elements constituting risk, namely hazard, consequences, exposure and probability will be explored in the course. Teaching and learning activities include formal lectures, scenario type tutorials, group discussions and guest seminars.

Continuous Assessment: 50%

Examination: 50%

Examination Duration: 2 hours

To pass a course, a student must obtain minimum marks of 30% in both coursework and examination components, and an overall mark of at least 40%.