A New Partnership Initiative to Support Distance Learning Module (DLM) Implementation in Armenia

On January 21, 2021, at the office of GeoRisk Scientific Research Company was held a meeting with the participation of scientists and practitioners, particularly representatives of the Institute of Geological Sciences NAS, Armenian State Pedagogical University, and Crisis Management State Academy MES, freelance expert and country representative of the Caucasus Network for Sustainable Development of Mountain Regions (Sustainable Caucasus). 

The meeting aimed at the introduction and implementation of the Distance Learning Module (DLM) for DRR and Disaster Risk Mapping in Armenian Higher Education Institutions.

Participants of the meeting discussed issues related to Disaster Risk Mapping Distance Learning Module and its expansion in other educational institutions, in Armenia. Armen Gevorgyan country representative of the Caucasus Network for Sustainable Development of Mountain Regions (Sustainable Caucasus), outlined in his speech, that the expansion of the aforementioned module contributes to the capacity building for hazard mapping in Armenia.

The project expert Ashot Sargsyan presented the content of the Hazard Mapping Distance Learning Module and highlighted the logical connection between theory and practice that exists in the learning module, which allows students to fully assimilate the gained knowledge. He also talked about the possibility of revision of the module based on the needs of the educational program of particular higher Educational institutions and local practice, as well as the volume of additional references and videos presented in the Distance Learning Module.

Participants of the meeting discussed and expressed their views on the establishment of a minimum threshold of knowledge and skills for the selection of students for DLM.  Representatives of above mentioned higher educational institutions were offered to organize TOT for their personal, where necessary.

The meeting was held in terms of the Strengthening Climate Change Adaptation Capacities in the South Caucasus programme funded by the  Swiss Co-operation Office-South Caucasus.