Instructor: Firooza Pavri
411T Plumb Hall
Tel: (316) 341-5537

email: pavrifir@emporia.edu
 

Course Description:

    This course serves as an introduction to the geography of different world regions.  The principal goals include, (a) introducing geographical concepts, theories, and models,   (b) classifying regions of the world in terms of their current level of development (“more” or “less” developed) using standard measures of development, (c) identifying spatial associations, (d) familiarizing  students with regions of the world based on place characteristics, and (e) enabling students to develop informed perspectives on current events occurring across the globe.

    Students are introduced to basic concepts and theories central to the study of physical and human geography during the first week of the semester.  These initial discussions are considered essential to understanding current local/global issues addressed in the course.  Following this theoretical introduction, each region of the world is considered individually.  Students are first provided with an overview of the dominant physical features for each region, while the demographic, environmental, socio-political and economic aspects of development are considered subsequently, and in greater depth.
 

Required Readings and Materials:

• Clawson, D.L. and J.S. Fisher.  1997.   World Regional Geography: A Development Approach.  New York: Prentice Hall.

• Articles distributed during the course of the semester.

• Map Packet - Will be made available.

Course Evaluation:

Students will be evaluated on the basis of:

• Four map tests for a total of 15% of the final grade.  These tests will be based on physical features, political units and cities (urban centers) within the regions covered in this course.

• One mid-term and a final exam based on material covered in class and on the assigned readings. Each of these comprise 30% of the final grade.

• Class participation and current event articles presented in class for 10% of the final grade.

• 3 homework assignments for 15% of the final grade.

***Updates will be posted***