Course Description
Geographic issues that affect Europe into the twenty-first century. Emphasis on current economic, social, and political controversies in Europe, as well as the historical context for these.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students will be required to write a substantial term paper. In addition, bi-weekly meetings for graduate students only will be used to discuss papers published on topics relevant to the class.
Athena Title
Geography of Europe
Prerequisite
GEOG 1101 or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Successful completion of this course will provide the following learning outcomes: A basic understanding of the economic, political, and social geography of Europe. An appreciation of the how contemporary economic, political, and social changes are impacting institutions and life in Europe. An awareness of the historical background to these contemporary economic, political, and social changes. An ability to analyze critically and interpret the impacts of these contemporary economic, political, and social changes. An appreciation of current issues affecting Europe. For example, conflicts between supra-nationalism (e.g., formation of EU) and regionalism (e.g., Basques, breakup of Yugoslavia). An understanding of Europe's position in the emerging global economy and polity. This course meets the following General Education Abilities, by accomplishing the specific learning objectives listed below: Communicate effectively through writing. This is met by a series of writing assignments associated with supplemental reading and data analysis. Communicate effectively through speech. This is met by oral presentations, discussion leading, and classroom participation. Computer Literacy is addressed through course administration, student-faculty electronic interaction, and data analysis activities and assignments. Critical Thinking is central to the learning objectives of this class, and are developed through homework assignments, lecture, classroom discussion, and inquiry- based learning efforts. Moral Reasoning (Ethics) is an important element of this course, as it explores linkages among human behaviors, economic development, differential cultural norms, and globalizing forces. Moral reasoning is developed through lectures, writing assignments, classroom discussion, and inquiry-based learning activities.
Topical Outline
Geography of resources across Europe Centripedal and centrifugal political, social, and cultural forces at work in Europe Regional case studies: Basques, Northern Ireland, Yugoslavia, devolution in Britain, unifying of Germany, and operations of the European Union Implications of end of the Cold War New landscapes of the post-Cold War era Synthesis