Sociology of Human-Environment Relationships, 7.5 Credits

Contents

This course explores the field of environmental sociology, aiming to give students a deeper understanding of the relationships between society and the environment. We focus on environmental problems such as climate  hange and biodiversity loss; people´s attitudes and behavior in relation to these problems; and policy responses aimed at addressing them. The course reviews different social sciences perspectives and concepts relevant for understanding the environmental challenges facing human societies. These include, for example, ecological modernization, environmental concern, externalities, collective action, postmaterialist values, and environmental justice. We will also discuss the importance of environmental protection to Indigenous peoples, and their protection of their traditional lands, waters, and resources.

Expected learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course, the student will, in terms of knowledge and understanding:

• have a deeper knowledge about central issues, themes and research areas within the field of environmental sociology
• have a deeper understanding of the relationship between attitudes, perceptions and behavior related to environmental issues

On successful completion of the course, the student will, in terms of skills and abilities:

• demonstrate developed research skills when it comes to the ability to review current research in order to identify relevant research questions in the field of environmental sociology
• be able to discuss theories, arguments and concepts related to environmental sociology, both verbally and in writing

On successful completion of the course, the student will, in terms of the skills of valuing:

• have knowledge about different methods that can be applied in order to answer empirical research questions in the field of environmental sociology
• demonstrate knowledge about the significance of the social sciences and environmental sociology in contributing to practical environmental work in society

Required Knowledge

90 credits in a main field of study within the social sciences including a thesis of 15 credits, or equivalent eligibility. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The course starts with a series of lectures and seminars that will provide students with a broad understanding of the relationship between society and the environment. The lectures focus on the three key themes: "Externalities and environmental policy", "Public opinion and behaviors", and "Development, trade, and the environment". The seminars will present students with crucial tools on how to engage in indepth case studies into a temporally and spatially defined environmental problem. After the lectures and seminars, students will select a specific theme or research question for the examination essay, focusing either on survey research in the area of environmental attitudes and behaviors, or some sort of case study approach. The course has a strong emphasis on independent work and active student participation.

Examination modes

The examination consists of writing an essay and presenting it at a seminar (compulsory). In order to be examined on the course, students must turn in an essay and attend all compulsory sessions indicated in the course schedule. The Swedish grading system states that the following grades may be awarded: Pass with Distinction (väl godkänd), Pass (godkänd) or Fail (underkänd). For comparison of grades, Umeå University has decided that the ECTS Grading Table (EGT) shall be used. International students' home university is responsible for any translation into their local grading system.

For each examining part of the course, a regular examination is offered followed by a re-examination within two months after the regular examination. When an examination is offered in May and June, the first re-examination is offered within three months of the regular examination. In addition, a second re-examination given within a year after the end of the course. Re-examination based on the same course plan as the regular examination is guaranteed up to two years after the course plan has ceased to be valid or the course is no longer given (see rules for grades and examination on basic and advanced level, Dnr: FS 1.1.2-553-14). A student who has failed twice an examination  for a course or a part of a course is entitled to have another examiner appointed after a written request to the head of department. 

Deviations from the form of examination in the course plan can be made for a student who has pedagogical support due to disabilities. Individual adjustment of the examination form is determined based on the student's needs. The examination form is adjusted within the framework of the expected learning outcomes of the course plan. After a request from the student, the course coordinator, in consultation with the examiner, promptly decides on the adjusted form of examination. The decision is then to be reported to the student.  

Transfer of credits
In order to transfer credits to a corresponding course at Umeå University, students have the right to submit previous education or equivalent knowledge and skills acquired in the profession for evaluation. Application for transfer of credits is submitted to the Student Centre / Examinations. More information on transfer of credits is available on Umeå University's student website, www.student.umu.se, and the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 6). A refusal for transfer of credits may be appealed against (Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 12) to the University Appeals Board. This applies whether the entire application or part of the application for transfer of credits is refused.