University of Guelph 1999-2000 Undergraduate Calendar

XII--Course Descriptions


Geography

Department of Geography.

Students majoring in other departments may take a number of Geography courses without the prerequisites listed below if they obtain the permission of the instructor.

Note:Several courses in Geography are listed as acceptable for the Natural and Mathematical Science B.A. Distribution Requirements or as Non-Science Electives for B.Sc. students.

For courses without a semester designation, or with an alternate year designation, please check with the department.

GEOG*1200 People, Places and Spatial Organization F,W(3-0) [0.50]

This course introduces key concepts in Human Geography and illustrates their practical application. Topics include population mobility and migration, settlement systems, urban and rural land use patterns and locational decision-making.

GEOG*1220 Human Impact on the Environment F,W(3-0) [0.50]

A global overview of the changing relationships among society, technology and the environment. This course emphasizes the major stages of human use of resources and the environmental consequences of global changes in production systems. It contrasts Third and First World experiences, focusing on core-periphery relationships.

GEOG*1300 Introduction to the Biophysical Environment F,W(3-2) [0.50]

An introduction to Physical Geography. The principles and processes governing climate-landform-soil-vegetation systems and interrelationships. Natural and human-induced changes to environmental systems. Laboratories will address techniques of measurement, representation and analysis of environmental systems through maps, air photographs, remote sensing and field observations.

Exclusions: GEOG*1350

GEOG*1350 Introduction to the Biophysical Environment F,W(3-0) [0.50]

An introduction to Physical Geography. The principles and processes governing climate-landform-soil-vegetation systems and interrelationships. Natural and human-induced changes to environmental systems. This is the non-laboratory version of GEOG*1300.

Exclusions: GEOG*1300

GEOG*2000 Geomorphology F(3-2) [0.50]

An introduction to geomorphology emphasizing weathering, slope and fluvial processes within drainage basins, and glacial and periglacial processes. Application of field and laboratory techniques.

Prerequisites: 1 of GEOG*1300, GEOG*1350, GEOL*1000, GEOL*1100

GEOG*2050 Third World Urbanization W(3-0) [0.50]

An analysis of Third World urbanization at the scales of the global and national urban systems, and of the major city. Emphasis is placed on the processes of urbanization, the role of the major city in reducing or increasing regional differentiation within the state, and the internal structure of the major city.

GEOG*2110 Climate and the Biophysical Environment W(3-1) [0.50]

The interrelationships between the atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere to produce distinct physical landscapes (climates, soils, vegetation). Emphasis on the role of climate and the flows of energy, water, and biogeochemicals.

Prerequisites: GEOG*1300 or GEOG*1350

GEOG*2210 Environment and Resources W(3-0) [0.50]

This course examines the interrelationships between people and biophysical processes. The main themes are: 1) characteristics of natural resources and processes through which they are developed and used and 2) human response to environmental conditions, including natural hazards and global change. Contemporary Canadian case studies will be presented at the regional and national scales.

Prerequisites: GEOG*1220 is recommended

GEOG*2230 Economic Geography F(3-0) [0.50]

An introduction to the spatial distribution of economic activity. The course examines patterns, processes and problems in extractive activities, manufacturing, marketing and the service sector, including the transportation of commodities and people. The principles of economic location are applied to regional economic analysis and development.

Prerequisites: GEOG*1200

GEOG*2420 Aerial-photo Interpretation F(2-3) [0.50]

An introduction to the principles and techniques of air photo interpretation and elementary photogrammetry. Topics include stereoscopic viewing, parallax, flightline planning, and mapping from air photos. Lab exercises focus on specific applications in natural habitats and in rural and urban settings.

Prerequisites: 1.00 credit in geography and/or earth science

GEOG*2460 Analysis in Geography F(3-2) [0.50]

The application of modern techniques to geographic study. The interpretation of geographic phenomena by objective methods. Major honours students in Geography must complete this course by the end of semester 4.

Prerequisites: 1.00 credit at the 1000 level in Geography

GEOG*2480 Cartographic Methods W(3-2) [0.50]

An introduction to the theory and techniques of processing and displaying spatial data. Mapping concepts such as scale, co-ordinate systems, map projections, generalization, data symbolization and map design are examined using both manual and automatic Geographic Information Systems (GIS) approaches. Major honours students in Geography must complete this course by the end of semester 4.

Prerequisites: 5.00 credits

GEOG*2510 Canada: A Regional Synthesis F(3-0) [0.50]

This course is designed to provide a better understanding of the nature and basis of Canadian regionalism. The first section of the course stresses the biophysical base and the inequality of the natural resource endowment. The historical geographic approach and the systematic overviews of contemporary Canada stress respectively the development and nature of the Canadian space-economy. The final section on regions, regionalism and nationalism provides an overview of the heartland-hinterland dichotomy and centrifugal and centripetal forces operative in the nation.

GEOG*2570 A Geography of the Third World W(3-0) [0.50]

A study of underdevelopment and development on the periphery of the world economy. Themes include the pre-industrial landscape, the colonial landscape, the dynamic relationship between independent state policies and the inherited spatial pattern.

GEOG*3000 Fluvial Processes (3-2) [0.50]

This course examines processes and landforms associated with rivers. Particular emphasis is placed on the interaction between water and sediment movement and channel morphology. Case studies of human impact on river systems are presented.

Prerequisites: GEOG*2000
Formerly: GEOG*4000

GEOG*3110 Biotic and Natural Resources (2-2) [0.50]

This course focuses on the ecological basis for resource management, evaluates a number of current ecological theories and addresses their implications for resource management.

Prerequisites: 1 of BIOL*2010, BOT*2050, ENVB*2030, GEOG*2110

GEOG*3200 Location and Spatial Organization of Industry (3-0) [0.50]

An examination and analysis of spatial patterns and processes in manufacturing industries. Topics include the geography of the firm, role of transportation, a reappraisal of location theories and selected case studies of contemporary manufacturing.

Prerequisites: GEOG*2230

GEOG*3210 Management of the Biophysical Environment (3-0) [0.50]

An examination of resource management, focusing on public and private decision-making processes. Consideration of techniques for evaluating resources, including EIA and risk analysis. Emphasis is on the economic, social and environmental implications of resource development and use. Contemporary Canadian case studies will be presented at appropriate scales.

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits (GEOG*2210 is recommended)

GEOG*3320 Agricultural Systems and Location (3-0) [0.50]

An examination of the nature and location of major agricultural systems of the world. Emphasis on physical, economic and social factors influencing these systems within a decision-making framework.

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits

GEOG*3380 The Making of the Ontario Landscape (3-0) [0.50]

The evolution of resource use systems, settlement patterns and built environments, their interrelationships and contribution to the Ontario landscape. Emphasis is given to the interpretation and analysis of source materials. (Offered in alternate years.)

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits

GEOG*3390 Rural Geography (3-0) [0.50]

A study of rural economy, society, settlement and land use with an emphasis on the causes, processes and implications of change. Examples will be drawn largely from Canada. (Offered in alternate years.)

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits

GEOG*3400 Urban Geography (3-0) [0.50]

A study of the evolution of the internal structure and functions of the city. Emphasis is placed on processes of social and economic change in the context of the built environment. (Offered in alternate years.)

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits

GEOG*3460 Advanced Analysis in Geography (3-2) [0.50]

An introduction to the use of multivariate techniques for the analysis of geographic data.

Prerequisites: GEOG*2460

GEOG*3480 Geographic Information Systems F,W(3-2) [0.50]

An introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Topics include data input and output, map creation, analysis functions, data quality issues, data management and implementation. Students are introduced to a range of GIS applications, including those in resource analysis and management. This course requires some familiarity with numerical methods and computer operations.

Prerequisites: 10.00 credits (GEOG*2480 is recommended)

GEOG*3490 Recreational Behaviour and Resources (3-0) [0.50]

Trends and problems in the development, use and management of outdoor recreational and tourist resources. Emphasis is on the spatial, socio-economic and environmental implications of the relationship between recreational behaviour and resources.

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits

GEOG*3510 China (3-0) [0.50]

The study of an ancient civilization significantly affected by the spread of a global capitalist economy and the development of socialism. Patterns of human organization and resource use will be examined according to the four major periods of China's recent history, namely, feudalism, colonialism, "Maoism", and "modernism". (Offered in alternate years.)

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits

GEOG*3530 U.S.A. (3-0) [0.50]

The spatial evolution of the United States as a complex economy and society. Selected themes and case studies are explored in relation to the development of varied regional systems and landscapes. (Offered in alternate years.)

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits

GEOG*3600 Geography of a Selected Region (3-0) [0.50]

The study of an area outside Anglo-America which will include topics in physical, economic, social and historical aspects of geography. (Offered in alternate years.)

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits

GEOG*3610 Environmental Hydrology (3-1) [0.50]

An introductory course in hydrology, the study of water in the environment. Emphasis is placed on understanding and modelling the hydrologic cycle. Topics include hydrologic processes, water resources, and case studies of freshwater systems.

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits, (1 of GEOG*2000, GEOG*2110, other 2000 level earth science or engineering science course is recommended)

GEOG*3620 Desert Environments (2-2) [0.50]

This course investigates the interrelationships among various biophysical processes that control weathering rates, sediment transport and landform/landscape development in arid environments. Topics will include: the concept of desertification, use and misuse of surface and ground water, salinization and the effect of human disturbance on landscape development. (Offered in alternate years.)

Prerequisites: 7.50 credits, (1 of GEOG*2000, GEOG*2110, other 2000 level earth science or engineering science course is recommended)

GEOG*4110 Environmental Systems Analysis (2-2) [0.50]

An integrated systems approach to solving issues of environmental evaluation, impact and development. Focus will be on the biophysical components of the environment.

Prerequisites: GEOG*3110 or GEOG*3610

GEOG*4150 Sedimentary Processes (2-2) [0.50]

This course examines the basic properties and flow characteristics of fluids that control the entrainment and transport of sediment by air and water. Bedform development in fluvial, coastal and aeolian environments are also discussed in relation to fluid flow mechanics. Lectures are complemented by weekly labs using the wind tunnel, flume and wave tank.

Prerequisites: GEOG*3000
Formerly: GEOG*3250

GEOG*4200 Economic Geography and Regional Development (3-0) [0.50]

An examination of selected issues in the spatial structure of the economy and the regional economic development process. Topics include industrial policy, transportation and agencies of development. Case studies are drawn from Canada and other developed and developing countries.

Prerequisites: GEOG*3200

GEOG*4210 Environmental Resource Analysis (3-0) [0.50]

This course provides an opportunity for advanced studies in resource management. A central aim is the development of an understanding of principles, practices and emerging issues relating to environmental impact assessment. The preparation and presentation of a group project is an integral component of the course.

Prerequisites: GEOG*3210
Exclusions: ENVS*4220

GEOG*4250 Coastal Processes (2-2) [0.50]

This course examines the geomorphic processes and associated landforms found in the coastal zone. Initially the focus is on developing an understanding of the major controls on coastal erosion and sediment transport, including waves, nearshore currents and water level fluctuations. This is followed by the study of features and processes in selected coastal environments such as beaches, barrier islands and spits, coastal sand dunes and bluff coasts. In each case applications to problems of coastal management are introduced.

Prerequisites: 1 of GEOG*3000, GEOG*3610, GEOG*3620

GEOG*4320 Rural Land Use (3-0) [0.50]

An analysis of land use issues and trends within sectors and between sectors, at local and regional scales. Students complete a project on a selected issue related to land use competition, compatibility, conflict and/or allocation.

Prerequisites: GEOG*3320 or GEOG*3390

GEOG*4390 Issues in Rural Geography (3-0) [0.50]

This course focuses on rural socio-economic change. Rural population dynamics, including depopulation, repopulation and differential migration, represent a central theme. Related issues of regional and community economic viability and social vitality in the context of settlement policies are addressed. (Offered in alternate years.)

Prerequisites: GEOG*3390

GEOG*4400 Issues in Urban Geography (3-0) [0.50]

Topics such as intra-urban mobility, urban renewal, gentrification, heritage conservation and public service facility location are discussed in the context of planning processes. (Offered in alternate years.)

Prerequisites: GEOG*3400

GEOG*4480 Applied Geographic Information Systems (2-2) [0.50]

This course adopts a project-oriented approach to the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in spatial analysis. Students will have the opportunity to design and implement a research project using GIS techniques to investigate a problem in any area of Geography.

Prerequisites: GEOG*3480

GEOG*4690 Geography Field Research F(3-6) [1.00]

This course provides an opportunity for senior students to develop skills in the design, implementation and presentation of a field research project. The course involves a field trip of about 10-14 days, either in Canada or abroad. This component of the course takes place between the end of the summer session and the start of classes in the fall semester. Classes during the fall semester focus on the analysis and interpretation of data and incorporate student research seminars. Information on the location and cost of the field research course is available from the department in the winter semester prior to each fall offering. Open to majors in Geography (B.A. and B.Sc.(Env.) and in Earth Surface Science (B.Sc.) with an overall average of at least 70% at the time of registration.

Prerequisites: 12.50 credits

GEOG*4880 Senior Seminar in Geography (3-0) [0.50]

A critical overview of the evolution and current status of Geography. Particular emphasis will be given to the variety of approaches and convergence and divergence within the discipline. The interaction between human and physical geographers and their approaches to issues and the subject will be analyzed. Open to major honours students in Geography at semester 6 or above.

GEOG*4990 Independent Study in Geography (3-0) [0.50]

The independent study option is designed to provide senior undergraduate students with an opportunity to pursue library or field research under faculty supervision and to prepare a research report. Formal agreement between the student and the faculty supervisor is required, as is approval of the department chair. Open to majors in Geography (B.A. and B.Sc.(Env.) and in Earth Surface Science (B.Sc.) with an overall average of at least 70% at the time of registration.


1999-2000 Undergraduate Calendar
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For general calendar inquiries contact: sdorr@registrar.uoguelph.ca

For Admission inquiries contact: info@registrar.uoguelph.ca

Last revised: January 1999.