Objectives

The purpose of the course is to give students an understanding of the distinctiveness of human geography and the human geographical perspective on the world. The course will provide theoretical and methodological insights based on theories and cases from human geographical research.

Content

The course will focus on processes of change linked to climate and energy in cities and local communities with a particular point of departure in human geographical perspectives on place, space and scale. In this way, the students will become familiar with current processes of change and contestation at different scales and the forces behind changes in place, related to planning, resources and energy, environment and the climate, economic development, innovation and production of meaning. Through examples given in lectures, students will also be acquainted with contemporary challenges for the development of sustainable cities and communities.

On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• can outline different human geographical approaches and ground these in the theoretical and historical foundation of the discipline.
• can outline and discuss processes of change at different scales and the forces of change in places.
• can outline and discuss contemporary challenges for vital cities other urban and non-urban areas.
• can elaborate on planning as a tool for sustainable urban and non-urban development.

Skills

The student

• is able to use relevant theory in the analysis of empirical cases.

General competence

The student

• can apply place, space and scale as concepts to analyze society.

1-2 lectures á 2 hours pr. week

Total: 10-12 lectures.

1 seminar á 2 hours pr. week.

Total: 6-8 seminars

• Student paper, 40% of grade
• Written exam 5 hours, 60% of grade

Department of Geography

Studieveileder@geog.uib.no