Introduction to Urban Geography-E2

Numbering Code U-LAS05 20049 LE74 Year/Term 2022 ・ Second semester
Number of Credits 2 Course Type Lecture
Target Year All students Target Student For all majors
Language English Day/Period Thu.4
Instructor name BAARS, ROGER CLOUD (Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies Senior Lecturer)
Outline and Purpose of the Course The majority of the world’s population live in cities. The course explores the dynamics and transformations of urban places and spaces, which include the origin and evolution of cities, the development of networks of cities bound together by culture, trade, communication and competition, as well as the dynamics of economic restructuring in urban regions.
Course Goals The course allows students to develop a critical perspective on dominant neoliberal representations of the city and to explore the great diversity of urban worlds. Students will understand the complexity of human-city relationships and learn how cities are shaped by culture, society, economics, politics, and the environment.
Schedule and Contents 1: Approaches to the City - What is Urban Geography?
2: Foundations I - Basic Concepts
3: Foundations II - Advanced Concepts
4: Forms and Structures
5: Urban Architecture
6: Urban Planning
7: Field Trip to Gion / Kawaramachi
8: City Economies
9: Experiencing the City
10: Housing and Inequality
11: Urban Transport
12: Sustainable Cities
13: Final Presentations I
14: Final Presentations II
15: Feedback

Total: 14 classes and 1 feedback session
The course schedule might change
Evaluation Methods and Policy 40% Photo Essay (1500 words), 50% Group Presentation (15-20 min), 10% Attendance and Participation in Class
Course Requirements You are interested in cities, excited about living in one, and want to learn more about them.

In week 7, we have a field trip to Sanjo/Gion: Participation is mandatory
Study outside of Class (preparation and review) Students are expected to actively participate in each class. This includes the discussion of contemporary topics in small groups and writing up brief summaries of findings (worksheet). Preparatory materials include academic readings, news pieces and online media materials.
Textbooks Textbooks/References Required readings and materials will be distributed via PandA.
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