This module examines the emergence, character and dynamics of world regions. Regions are considered as basic units of geographical analysis, real environmental, political, economic and cultural entities, and socially constructed places and identities. A systematic analysis of several world regions is undertaken to examine the internal and external factors that help explain their contemporary geographies. This considers their historical-geographical development and their present condition through detailed consideration of key themes, amongst which might be population, colonialism, industrialisation, urbanisation and environmental challenges . The inter-connections between these regions is considered in the context of growing globalisation.

Lectures: 10 hours (These review the emergence of the modern geographical thought and four major regions and their core characteristics)

Workshops/seminars: 10 hours (These allow for more in-depth analysis of particular issues and themes as well as providing an opportunity for some student-centred learning. Activities may include videos, debates, role playing, group work etc.).

Directed independent study: 130 hours Independent learning will focus on developing detailed knowledge of the selected world regions, their principal characteristics and their place in the global community. Specific themes will be studied with reference to each world region.

Pulsipher, L (2014) World Regional Geography. 6th edition (Freeman)

Knox, P. & Agnew, J.and McCarthy, L. (2012) The Geography of the World Economy. 6th edition (Arnold)

Parker, G. (ed) (2007) Times Atlas of World History. 12th edition (Harper-Collins) Murray, W. Geographies of Globalization (2006) [London, Routledge]

None.

1) Understand the conceptual and real life complexity of regions and regional analysis.
(KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING)

2) Understand some of the major historical-geographical processes that help explain the character of contemporary world regions.
(KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING)

3) Analyse the role of internal and external factors to the evolving nature of world regions.
(ANALYSIS)

4) Understand the inter-related nature of world regions and their development.
(ENQUIRY)

5) Identify some of the main challenges facing selected world regions in the 21st century.
(ANALYSIS)

6) Convey facts, concepts and case studies concisely and effectively.
(COMMUNICATION)

Photo Essay (plus peer review) – Weighted at 20% and assessing LO’s 1, 2 & 6
Coursework Essay – Weighted at 80% and assessing LO’s 2,3,4 & 5