Uneven economic development in a globalized world , 7.5 credits

Contents

The course takes its point of departure in various geographical perspectives on economic development, viewed at local, regional, national, and global scales. Based on key geographical concepts such as space, place, and scale, the course focuses on processes—from individual workers to global production networks—that contribute to globalization and uneven development. Particular emphasis is placed on the consequences of these processes for access to and use of resources, inequality, poverty, and redistribution. This integrated focus analyses power relations that extend across the globe in order to deepen knowledge and understanding of economic, social, and political justice.

Expected learning outcomes

Upon completion of the course, the student shall be able to:

*Knowledge and understanding *

1. Apply key geographical concepts such as space, place, and scale to analyse economic processes at different levels.

2. Explain the mechanisms behind globalization and uneven economic development and their consequences for resources, inequality, and regional development.

*Skills and abilities *

3. Demonstrate the ability to analyse and discuss relevant issues related to the course content.

*Judgement and approach *

4. Reflect on the consequences of uneven economic development and global production networks.

5. Critically evaluate the roles and decisions of different actors in relation to labour markets, society, and regional development.

Required Knowledge

Univ: 120 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits in one main area. In addition, English 6/level 2 is required from the upper secondary school.

Form of instruction

The course is a web-based distance course. Teaching consists of recorded lectures, exercises, and seminars in which students are expected to participate actively.

Examination modes

Assessment consists of three seminars, three quizzes, and a case presentation accompanied by an individual written reflection. The grading scale comprises Pass with Distinction (VG), Pass (G), and Fail (U). To successfully complete the course, students must complete all examinations and assignments and receive at least a Pass (G) on each assessed component.

Grades cannot be appealed (i.e. reviewed by a higher authority). However, students may request that the examiner reassess the grading decision. A student who has failed the same examination twice in succession has the right to be assigned a different examiner, unless special circumstances apply (Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 6, Section 11b). Students may not retake examinations that have already been passed in order to improve their grade.

The seminars and the quizzes are graded Pass (G) or Fail (U) and must be passed in order for the student to continue the course. The final case presentation and the accompanying written reflection is graded Fail (U), Pass (G), or Pass with Distinction (VG).

To pass the course, students must obtain a Pass (G) grade on all seminars, quizzes, and the case presentation. To be awarded a Pass with Distinction (VG), the case presentation and the accompanying written reflection must be assessed as Pass with Distinction (VG).

The examiner may decide on deviations from the examination format specified in the course syllabus. Individual adaptation of the examination format shall be considered based on the student’s needs, within the framework of the intended learning outcomes. Students requiring adapted examination must submit a request to the responsible department no later than 10 days before the examination. The examiner decides on the adaptation and informs the student accordingly.

Grades cannot be appealed, but students may submit comments on the grading or request reconsideration by the examiner.

Students who have received a passing grade may not retake the examination to achieve a higher grade. Students who fail the ordinary examination will be offered a re-examination in accordance with Umeå University’s Regulations for Grading and Examination at First- and Second-Cycle Levels (FS 1.1.2-553-14). A re-examination shall be offered no later than two months after the ordinary examination, and no earlier than ten working days after the results have been announced. For examinations conducted in May or June, the first re-examination may be offered within three months of the ordinary examination.

Students who have failed an examination twice have the right to request a different examiner, unless special reasons apply (Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 6, Section 22). Such requests shall be processed promptly and submitted to the Director of Studies.

Credit transfer
Students have the right to apply for credit transfer for previous studies or professional experience. Applications are processed by the Degree Office at the Student Centre.

Other regulations

If the course syllabus ceases to apply or undergoes major changes, students are guaranteed at least three examination opportunities (including the ordinary examination) in accordance with the syllabus under which they were originally registered, for a maximum period of two years.