Suzanne D Withers
Introduction to population geography. Offers a practical understanding of population processes (fertility, mortality, and migration); knowledge of geographic variation in population structures and characteristics; knowledge of data sources for demographic research; experience using formal demographic methods for geographic research; and an appreciation for the demographic underpinnings of contemporary social issues.
This course serves as an introduction to the field of population geography. The aim of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the geographic variation of the diversity of America's population. The course advances a demographic perspective towards understanding social change. Students will gain an understanding of the connections between population processes (temporal and spatial) and societal dynamics and diversity. National, regional and local scales of variation are examined. The course addresses such topics as the history of U.S. immigration policy, the concept of 'race' and its treatment in the U.S. census over time, exploring mortality differences, political redistricting and affirmative gerrymandering, measures of segregation, and variations in the internal migration of populations.
Student learning goals
A practical understanding of population processes (fertility, mortality, and migration)
Knowledge of the geographic variation in population structure and characteristics
Knowledge of sources of data for demographic research
Experience using the methods of formal demography for geographic research
Experience using geographic information systems (GIS) for demographic research
An appreciation for the demographic underpinnings of contemporary social issues
General method of instruction
Lectures, films, labs, seminar discussions.
Class assignments and grading