GEOG6080
10 units
6000 level
Course handbook
Description
Australian cities and regions are transforming and there is heated political debate about their future course. GEOG6080 examines the economic, social and cultural dynamics of cities and regions, and contemporary shifts in the theories through which we understand them. The course draws on a series of case studies of Australian as well as international cities, regions, communities and policies to explain patterns of urban, suburban and regional growth and decline, change and continuity. Topics covered include: urban economic and socio-cultural diversity; changing urban forms; sustainable urban and regional development; policy challenges for the management of urban and regional development; and the challenges of urban and regional growth and decline. On completion of this course students will have experience in geographical methods, skills and knowledge that are highly useful for future employment opportunities.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Callaghan
- Semester 1 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Identify the patterns and problems of urban and regional development and management;
2. Identify the workings and impacts of colonialism and power, and explain how these encounters have shaped our cities, towns and regions.
3. Explain the processes driving urban and regional economic, social and cultural transformation at a range of scales;
4. Examine and describe a variety of theoretical approaches from which to investigate and evaluate urban and regional patterns, problems and processes patterns, problems and processes;
5. Develop a range of skills and methods relevant to geographical enquiry and communication. These include: critical analysis and evaluation of data sources; the interpretation of field observations; and the presentation of material including report writing and essay writing;
6. Analyse and evaluate a variety of materials including policy documentation, statistical information and reports.
Content
Module 1: Cities and suburbs: Changing city forms; the politics of urban development; urban and suburban planning; acknowledging Country in urban spaces. Socio-spatial patterns of advantage and disadvantage, diversity and difference; wellbeing and social justice. Public space; gentrification; creative cities; smart cities; place-making.
Module 2: Peri-urbanisation: Drivers of peri-urban development; policy and peri-urban development; master planned communities; community and place-making; lifestyle choices; market needs vs social needs; social determinants of health; the need for integrated planning.
- Peri-urban life
- Peri-urban challenges and opportunities
Module 3: Rural and regional places: Conceptualising the rural; drivers of rural change; transforming rural places; The rural idyll; the anti-idyll; amenity-led migration; performing the rural; competing rural narratives; neglected rural and regional geographies.
Assessment items
Quiz: Online Quizzes
Essay: Essay
Log / Workbook: Field Trip Report
Report: Field Report
Contact hours
Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan
Field Study-1
- Face to Face Off Campus 24 hour(s) per term
- Includes field & computer labs conducted during 2 intensive field trips. Week/dates to be advised.
Lecture-1
- Online 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 11 week(s)
Tutorial-1
- Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s)
Course outline
- GEOG6080 - Semester 1, 2024 (Callaghan) (PDF, 178.2 KB)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.