The
National Science Foundation funded the University of Delaware's
Disaster Research Center (DRC) to establish a Research Experiences
for Undergraduates' (REU) site to engage 10 undergraduate students in
hands-on research training to enhance their understanding of the
social science aspects of disasters. Each summer, a nine-week
research training institute will be held at DRC to provide students
with the necessary academic background, training and relevant
research experiences to prepare them to function as relatively
independent research scholars. Course modules will focus on research
methodology; social science approaches to understanding the causes
and consequences of disasters; and ethical implications of the
research process. Students will work with leading scholars and
researchers on state-of-the-art research projects that focus on
issues such as disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery,
vulnerability and resilience. A multi-disciplinary group of leading
disaster researchers and practitioners will participate in the
Invited Speaker Series in order to emphasize the contributions that
other disciplines bring to this field. A series of professional
development and social-cultural activities will complement the
trainees' overall education and training.
