GEG-40020 - Module Specification
School of Geography, Geology and the Environment
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

The Key themes in Human Geography and Sustainability module provides cutting-edge insights into the diversity of inquiry, debate and active research currently taking place within contemporary human geography and the diverse range of sustainability-related issues of relevance. In particular, these relate to the current United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and especially the creation of sustainable cities and communities, good health and well being, reduced inequalities and clean energy. Through exposure to current research, students are able to generate new subject-skills and knowledge which they can apply in the real world and which can help in the development of new approaches for tackling current societal challenges. In addition, the module provides students with the skills and opportunity to undertake a critical systematic literature review - a skill highly valued by employers who frequently require a synthesis and quality appraisal of research on particular topics.

This module explores the varied areas of inquiry, debate and active research within contemporary human geography and sustainability. In particular, it focuses on key theories and concepts of relevance to human geography and sustainability and highlights the breadth of the field of enquiry and the range of theoretical positions of relevance. Through exposure to current research being undertaken across a wide variety of (sub-)disciplinary areas, the module will highlight the range of research questions being tackled; techniques being employed and the `real world¿ implications of research in different areas of the discipline, including consideration of the United Nation (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The module also provides students with the skills and opportunity to undertake a critical and focused literature review which can inform their proposed independent research projects.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Critically evaluate the broad range of theories, concepts and techniques shaping current research in human geography and sustainability: 1,2
Appraise the contested and provisional nature of knowledge and understanding, including wider debates and theoretical developments in respect of human geography and sustainability: 1
Exhibit reflexivity in terms of the interconnections between theories and concepts explored in the module and how they have been used in human geography and sustainability research: 1
Craft a focused, coherently structured and critical literature review of a particular subject area in order to present a scholarly argument and which recognises and articulates weaknesses in the arguments of others: 1
Succinctly present the ways in which geographical concepts can develop our understanding of sustainability frameworks: 2
Critically evaluate the Sustainable Development Goals: 2

Study hours

36 (12 x 3hr) seminars/ directed study
36 hours seminar preparation
50 hours literature review preparation
10 hours oral presentation preparation
17 hours private study
1 hour 1-2-1 meeting with a relevant staff member

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment