Common Course Outline

Course discipline/number/title GEOG 1614: Human Geography

Catalog Description

Credits 3
Hours/Week 4 (2 lecture, 2 lab)
Prerequisites (Course discipline/number) None
Other requirements College level reading and writing skills recommended
MnTC Goals (if any) Goal 5/History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences, Goal 8/Global Perspectives

Course Description

This course is an introductory study of the human geography of world in terms of the spatial distribution of cultural and physical phenomena, and a philosophical analysis of the interrelationships of those elements. College level reading and writing skills recommended.

Date Last Revised (Month, year)

December, 2022

Outline of Major Content Areas

  1. Physical Geography
  2. Demography
  3. Economic Development
  4. Ethnocentrism and Cross-Cultural Analysis
  5. Urban Patterns and Settlement Types
  6. Political Geography and Geopolitics
  7. Ecology

Learning Outcomes (General)

The student will be able to:

  1. Explain the transition from hunter-gatherer types of social organization to the complex international global economy.
  2. Select and use appropriate maps, census, and other statistical data to critically analyze geographical problems, practically and conceptually.
  3. Use concepts of spatial organization such as distribution and diffusion to interpret the world’s cultures and their landscapes.
  4. Demonstrate an understanding of the demographics and effects of twentieth century population growth and migrations on the environment.
  5. Evaluate urban morphology in terms of land use and socio-spatial differentiation in cities.
  6. Evaluate the human impact on the environment.

Learning Outcomes (MnTC)

Goal 5/History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences

The student will be able to:

  1. Employ methods and data that historians and social scientists use to investigate the human condition; and develop and communicate alternative explanations and solutions for modern social issues.
  2. Use and critique alternative explanatory systems or theories.
  3. Develop and communicate alternative explanations or solutions for contemporary social issues.
Goal 8/Global Perspectives

The student will be able to:

  1. Describe and analyze political, economic, and cultural elements, which influence relations of states and societies in their historical and contemporary dimensions.
  2. Demonstrate knowledge of cultural, social, religious, and linguistic differences.
  3. Analyze specific international problems, illustrating the cultural, economic, and political differences that affect their solution.

Methods for Evaluation of Student Learning

Methods may include but are not limited to:

RCTC Core Outcome(s)

This course contributes to meeting the following RCTC Core Outcome(s):

Critical Thinking
Students will think systematically and explore information thoroughly before accepting or formulating a position or conclusion.

Special Information (if any)

None