Abstract: This paper summarizes the development of an interdisciplinary Faculty
Learning Community (FLC) bringing together the Virginia Commonwealth University,
School of Social Work and Government and Public Affairs, Department of Homeland
Security to develop an in depth, comprehensive pedagogical approach to the many issues
associated with disaster risk reduction. As the title suggests, this is an interdisciplinary team that explores learning and demonstrates learning models. This particular FLC focuses on understanding the antecedent conditions and root causes of disaster events.
We explore best practices to prevent, mitigate, and prepare for such events in the
undergraduate and graduate curriculum with an emphasis on homeland security and
social work. The FLC is an example of a non-traditional educational model providing
content on disaster risk, response, and global impact. This particular FLC was
committed to bringing together appropriate expertise from the academic setting as well
as inviting community members and organizations into the classroom to share the “lived
experience” and intuitive knowledge about disaster.