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Introducing Human Geography

  • Module code: GG4040
  • Year: 2018/9
  • Level: 4
  • Credits: 30
  • Pre-requisites: None
  • Co-requisites: None

Summary

This module is designed to introduce students to key geographical theories and concepts whilst providing a foundation for future studies in Human Geography. The module provides a broad understanding of the relationship between human societies and a range of economic, cultural, social and political processes at a variety of scales.

Topics covered in the module include demographic change, economic development, energy production, environmentalism, food security, displacement and international migration, and social and spatial inequality. Students will look at these issues at a range of spatial scales and also be introduced to GIS as a tool for visualising and identifying spatial patterns and relationships. The module provides an essential introduction to future human geography modules that focus in more detail on key geographical theories, concepts, and processes.

The focus of the module is global and case studies from different geographical contexts in both the global north and south will be examined.

Aims

  • To introduce students to key theories and concepts in human geography
  • To analyse the relationships between human societies and contrasting physical, cultural, social, economic and political environments
  • To examine the importance of geographical enquiry to key contemporary debates
  • To develop key skills in written and verbal communication, critical thinking and independent learning
  • To introduce students to key theories and concepts in human geography
  • To analyse the relationships between human societies and contrasting physical, cultural, social, economic and political environments
  • To examine the importance of geographical enquiry to key contemporary debates
  • To develop key skills in written and verbal communication, critical thinking and independent learning

Learning outcomes

  • Critically engage with a range of theoretical and conceptual issues in human geography
  • Show an understanding of current global patterns, trends and processes in relation to key geographical ideas and approaches
  • Demonstrate a range of oral and written communication skills (oral presentations, essay, report, peer review)
  • Provide evidence of reading with a critical and analytic sensibility

Curriculum content

The module explores seven key themes: i) global demographic change; ii) resources; iii) the global economy; iv) green politics; v) urban development, vi) consumption and vii) identity and belonging. Through these themes students examine why geography matters to a series of contemporary debates and concerns which include: globalisation, sustainability, social inequality, economic systems, urbanisation, housing, gentrification and nationalism. A variety of local, national and international case studies are used to examine these substantive issues and to consider issues of social justice.

Teaching and learning strategy

Introduction to Human Geography is taught using lectures and seminars with the support of a range of online material. Lectures are designed to introduce students to key concepts and issues that are explored in further detail via group seminars. These smaller group discussions provide students with the opportunity to develop and consolidate their understanding whilst developing key verbal and written communication skills. Students are guided through a programme of directed reading which forms the basis of material drawn upon in lectures, seminars, essays and the module examination.

Breakdown of Teaching and Learning Hours

Definitive UNISTATS Category Indicative Description Hours
Scheduled learning and teaching 21 x 2 hour lectures 9 x 2 hour seminars 2 x 4 hour fieldtrips 42 18 8
Guided independent study Student independent study 232
Total (number of credits x 10) 300

Assessment strategy

Summative assessment is through 3 pieces of coursework. These include an essay (30%), an oral presentation (30%), and a report (40%).

Formative assessments undertaken in both seminars (feedback on oral contribution) and during independent study (essay drafts) will result in regular and detailed feedback so that students are aware of their progress to date and areas for further development. Students will be encouraged to select essay topics/issues that are of interest to them and/or that reflect the cultural diversity of the cohort. On-going discussion via the seminar tutors and module leader will assist the student in the development of strategies for improvement and enhancement.

Mapping of Learning Outcomes to Assessment Strategy (Indicative)

Learning Outcome Assessment Strategy
1) Critically engage with a range of theoretical and conceptual issues in human geography Coursework Essay Oral Presentation Coursework Report
2) Show a critical understanding of current global patterns, trends and processes in relation to key geographical ideas and approaches Coursework Essay Oral Presentation Coursework Report
3) Demonstrate a range of oral and written communication skills Formative seminar assignments Coursework Essay Oral Presentation Coursework Report
4) Provide evidence of reading with a critical and analytic sensibility Coursework Essay Oral Presentation Coursework Report

Elements of Assessment

Description of Assessment Definitive UNISTATS Categories Percentage
Essay Coursework 30%
Oral Presentation Practical Exam 30%
Report Coursework 40%
Total (to equal 100%) 100%

Achieving a pass

It IS NOT a requirement that any major element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.

Bibliography core texts

Boyle, M., (2014) Human Geography: A Concise Introduction. John Wiley & Sons, London.

Daniels, P., Bradshaw, M., Shaw, D., and Sidaway, J., (2012) An Introduction to Human Geography. Issues for the 21st Century. Pearson, London.

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