Time Schedule:
Kevin Ramsey
BIS 314
Bothell Campus
Topics/areas of study may include: cultural geography, physical geography, geography of globalization.
Class description
Spring 2009: BIS 314 Topics in Geography: The Seattle Region
In this course we examine the dynamic human and environmental geographies of the Seattle region. This exploration will include an analysis of the complex social, political, and economic systems and structures which shape this region and the lives of people who live here. Special attention will be given to environmental problems associated with urbanization. Significant class time will be spent on student-directed collaborative research projects which examine a specific policy, social movement, or organization seeking to address some problem in our region. There will be opportunities for this project to include a community-based learning component whereby student groups work directly with a local organization.
Student learning goals
Articulate and understand the complex set of systems and structures that make up, and shape, an urban region.
Have greater knowledge of the Seattle region and contemporary processes changing its cities, neighborhoods, and environment.
Critically examine a contemporary problem in our region as well as a specific effort to address this problem by developing research, data collection, and analysis skills.
Develop competency in collaborative research, knowledge production, writing, and presentation.
General method of instruction
The format of this course will vary from day to day. Class periods may include short lectures, small and large group discussion of course readings, special guest presentations, collaborative work on student-directed research projects, and presentation of student work.
Recommended preparation
Curiosity about the Seattle region and the geographic processes which shape it.
Class assignments and grading
