Population trends and urbanization

The course is a basic course in human geography. It can be taken as a stand-alone course and is also included in the Social Analysis Program in Economic History and Human Geography, as well as an optional specialization in the Social and Environmental Sciences Program. The course can be included in the following programs: 1) Social and Environmental Sciences Program (S1SMI) and 2) Social Analysis Program in Economic History and Human Geography (S1SAP)

The course provides an introduction to population geography and urbanization with a focus on population development and current population issues, and on urbanization processes and city functions, as well as current challenges related to urbanization. The course focuses on the role and movements of humans, and discusses important concepts such as urbanization, migration and segregation. What is common to the entire course is that it highlights aspects at different scales, from local and regional examples to national and global trends. The course connects to issues related to sustainable development and the UN's Agenda 2030.

Knowledge and understanding

1. demonstrate a basic understanding of the spatial organization of society based on physical, economic and social processes, with a particular focus on population change and urbanization.

Skills and abilities

2. analyze ongoing population changes and urban phenomena and processes - at different scales - using geographical concepts and theories.

Evaluation skills and approach

3. problematize and value current population-geographic and urban processes that are tangible in today's society - on different scale levels.

Forms of teaching include lectures, group assignments, and seminars. Through group assignments, theoretical knowledge is combined with practical reality.

The learning outcomes are examined through a written exam, as well as a written and oral group report and active attendance at compulsory modules.

If a student who has failed the same module twice wishes to change examiners for the next examination, such a request should be submitted in writing to the department and shall be approved unless there are special reasons to the contrary (HF Chapter 6, Section 22). If the student has received a recommendation from the University of Gothenburg for special pedagogical support, the examiner may, if it is compatible with the course objectives and provided that unreasonable resources are not required, decide to give the student an adapted examination or alternative examination form. In the event that a course has been discontinued or has undergone major changes, the student shall be guaranteed at least three examination opportunities (including regular examination opportunities) for a period of at least one year, but no longer than two years after the course has been discontinued/changed. The same applies to internships and work-based training, but with a limitation to only one additional examination opportunity.

The course is graded as Excellent (A), Very Good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Adequate (E) and Fail (F). To obtain a passing grade (A-E) on the course, attendance at compulsory components and a passing result on both the exam and the group assignment are required. The grade for the course as a whole is weighted by the results of the exam components and is set in relation to an established grading scale.

Course evaluation is carried out at the end of the course. The results and any changes to the course structure should be communicated both to the students who completed the evaluation and to the students who will begin the course.

The equality aspect is taken into account in content, literature and evaluation. International conditions are taken into account in content and literature. The course uses a digital learning platform. Therefore, access to a computer and the internet is required. The course may not be included in the degree together with KGG101, KGG105 or KGG2EP