Geography stage I courses

A fundamental understanding of the functioning of natural systems at the Earth’s surface and the complexities of human interactions with these systems. The course examines the operation and interaction between the Atmospheric, Hydrological, Ecological and Geomorphic systems. Environmental processes are used as an integrating theme. Specific topics covered include: the climate and hydrological systems, ecological processes; the surface sediment cycle; and processes governing development and dynamics of major landform types. The course also highlights the relevance of Earth surface processes to resolving applied environmental problems.

This course is taught in: First Semester, City Campus (S1 C); Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Format: three 1-hour lectures per week and one 2-hour laboratory fortnightly
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework (labs 30%, test 20%), 50% final examination
Course coordinator:  Brendon Blue

This course examines the relationships among personal geographies and global geographies of uneven development, economic and socio-cultural change. Using a variety of examples from New Zealand and the world we illustrate the connections between local places and global issues.

This course is taught in: First Semester, City Campus (S1 C); Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Format: three 1-hour lectures per week plus one 2-hour tutorial fortnightly
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% final examination
Course coordinator:  Melanie Wall

Please note: This course may no tbe offered in 2017.

An introduction to contemporary geospatial technologies such as web-mapping, GPS and tracking devices (such as your phone), and GIS.  Covers key concepts and principles behind these tools and their use, along with practical experiences through laboratories. Critical and theoretical perspectives on the tools, their use, and their social impacts will be discussed.

This course is taught in: Summer School, City Campus (SS C)

Format: three 2-hour lectures and one 2-hour laboratory each week
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% final examination
Course coordinator: Tami Nicoll

What makes a great city? This course explores ‘urbanism’ in both historical and contemporary cities to determine the essence of urbanity and the way that citizens (and visitors) experience city life. Since the majority of the world’s population live in cities the study of the city is a study of the contemporary human condition, yet city life remains distinguishable from other forms of human settlement, and while there are many cities, there are fewer ‘great cities’, and the reasons for this are not simply related to size or apparent wealth. The dynamics and character of cities are considered in terms of their built environment, economic systems, population, human and cultural diversity and planning policies and practices.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Format: three 1-hour lectures per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% final examination

Course coordinator:  Melanie Wall