Social geography 1900-1-GSP
This course introduces students to the way of thinking characteristic of social geography, focusing on how social phenomena are shaped by space and how they, in turn, transform that space. Social geography is presented as a field that allows for the analysis of inequalities, mobility, identities, human-environment relationships, and urban transformations in their spatial dimension.
During the course, the main research approaches in social geography, its development in Poland, and selected socio-spatial issues of the contemporary world are discussed. Particular attention is devoted to the social perception of environmental threats, demographic changes, mobility and migration, social diversity, exclusion, and social integration. Issues of cultural geography, spatial identity, globalization, and deglobalization are also presented.
A significant part of the course is devoted to issues in the social geography of cities, including socio-spatial segregation, gentrification, urban lifestyles, the representation of social groups in space, and urban movements. Geographical perspectives on development, global inequalities, sustainable development, and the concept of degrowth are also discussed.
The exercises are designed to enhance students’ ability to interpret social phenomena observed in their immediate surroundings. Through micro-projects, students analyze selected examples of socio-spatial issues, perform simple research and analytical tasks, and participate in discussions. Examples of micro-projects include a photo essay analyzing ecological and pseudo-ecological behaviors, and an audit of the inclusivity of public spaces.
Student workload: 3 ECTS = 3x25h= 75h (in direct contact 2 ECTS)
(N) - work in direct contact with the teacher,
(S) - student's own (independent) work.
Classes (lecture) = 30h (N)
Classes (exercises) = 15h (N)
Preparation (independent) for the exam = 15h (S)
Independent preparation for exercises - 1h/week. = 7h (S)
Analytical and project work = 4h (S)
Credit for exercises, lecture test, exams = 4h (N)
Total approximately 75h
Main fields of studies for MISMaP
Course coordinators
Type of course
Mode
Learning outcomes
Directional effects: K_W01,K_W04, K_W05, K_W09,K_W14/K_U01, K_U04, K_U07/ K_K01,K_K02, K_K05
KNOWLEDGE:
- main research directions and achievements of contemporary social geography
- main geographical concepts explaining the diversity of social phenomena and processes in the world
- factors influencing the diversity of socio-spatial structures
- divisions of the contemporary world in a geographical perspective, plane of social divisions
SKILLS:
- correctly interpret and explain the mutual relations between phenomena and social and natural processes in different areas,
- critically use scientific literature and other sources also in a foreign language in the field of social geography
- plan and conduct simple research related to social geography, both individual and team
SOCIAL COMPETENCES:
- expanding professional competences and updating geographic knowledge
- a critical assessment of the processes and activities taking place with a sense of responsibility for the condition of the Earth's ecosystems and resources
- cooperation and work in a group
Assessment criteria
Lecture: Written exam
Seminars: Class participation, project, presentation
Practical placement
None
Bibliography
Basic bibliography:
The Newcastle Social Geographies Collective, 2020, Social Geographies: An Introduction, Rowman & Littlefield International.
Węcławowicz G., 2018, Geografia społeczna Polski, Wydawnictwo Naukowe PWN, Warszawa.
Del Casino V. J., 2009, Social Geography: A Critical Introduction, Wiley-Blackwell.
Del Casino V. J., Thomas M. E., Cloke P., Panelli R. (red.), 2011, A Companion to Social Geography, Wiley-Blackwell.
Knox P., Pinch S., 2014, Urban Social Geography, Pearson.
Articles recommended by the lecturer during classes.
Additional information
Information on level of this course, year of study and semester when the course unit is delivered, types and amount of class hours - can be found in course structure diagrams of apropriate study programmes. This course is related to the following study programmes: