Writing Assignment

Based on this week's lesson, address the following:

1. As you read the three different worst-case scenarios, it should be apparent that a key challenge is simply developing a rapid picture of the spatial extent of a disaster. If you assume that a given disaster will disable local EOCs and their accompanying geospatial tools and data, describe at least two ways that emergency managers brought in from afield could quickly assemble data that describes the extent of the disaster. How would folks from the digital humanitarian community approach this problem?

2. What do you consider to be the one or two key challenges facing the application of Spatial Data Science to Emergency Management in (a) temporally short, geographically local event(s) versus (b) temporally extended, geographically regional events? Assume your audience is a group of emergency management planners considering incorporating geospatial data and analysis into their operations. They don't have a lot of time, so be direct and succinct in your analysis.   

Make clear how your response relates to the readings.

This response should be between 500 - 600 words in length.

This class is writing intensive. I'll be editing and commenting on your written work throughout the term. Penn State's Style for Students guide can be a huge help if it's been a while since you've written for a course like this.