Philosophy of Geography, Theories and Concepts

The course gives a general overview of the development of Geography from c.1950 up until today, and emphasis is on highlighting the most significant ideas, traditions and trends in this period. Focus is on today’s most central trends and discourses. In the first part of the semester, teaching is primarily based on lectures. In mid-semester, students work on their own paper, in which the general literature is related to the selected themes/ research objectives of their Master’s thesis. The paper is presented and discussed at a seminar (1 hour per student). The seminars are mainly concentrated in the second half of the semester. In addition to presenting their own paper each student also gives prepared commentary on another student’s paper. Both the paper and commentary must be approved before the home examination can be taken. The preparation for the examination is awarded a provisional grade, which is adjusted following the oral test.

Knowledge: By the end of the course the candidate will have thorough knowledge about present debates, concept and theories of science in this subject

Skills: The candidate will identify and analyze central mechanism behind the development of concept and theories

General competence: Exercise in professional analyze, and writing and presentation of a professional academic text.

Teaching method and activities: 24 hours lectures, 24 hours seminars.