Knowledge of Land, Seas and Environment in the Arctic
This course explores the unique land and environmental characteristics of the circumpolar Arctic region with an emphasis on environment, climate, sustainability, justice, and traditional knowledge, as well as Arctic Governance. Participants will engage with a variety of perspectives and literature, including elements from geography, policy studies, political ecology, environmental and climate change science. The course will be built around the following themes: Arctic ecosystems and resources, justice and environmental and climate change, as well as Arctic Governance. By the end of the course, students will have an understanding of the Arctic's position in a global context, as well as key ideas of justice for the Arctic climate and environment.
Through these themes, the course examines some of the most important issues concerning land, sea, climate, ecology and natural resources of the North. Together, the course introduces students to the key issues involving interaction between people and the environment in the world's Northern regions. As such, this course will be beneficial to student attempting to better understand the current issues facing the North, as well as those planning to pursue advanced studies about the region or sustainable development.
Knowledge
The student...
- has knowledge of important topics, theories, problems in the land and environmental studies concerning the Nordic and Arctic regions
- Is familiar with research and development work in the field of the land and environmental studies concerning the Nordic and Arctic regions
- can identify and discuss sustainability dilemmas related to environmental changes in the Arctic and Nordic regions.
- can update his/her knowledge in land and environmental studies.
- has knowledge of the history, traditions, distinctive nature of land and environment studies and their place in society
- Can understand and reflect on the role international environmental institutions and international collaboration in the Arctic and Nordic countries
Skills
The candidate
- can apply academic knowledge within the field of land and environmental studies to practical, theoretical problems and sustainable dilemmas and explain his/her choices
- can reflect on his/her own academic practice and adjust it under supervision
- can find, evaluate and refer to information and academic material in the subject of land and environment in Nordic and Arctic regions
- masters relevant academic tools, techniques and styles
General Competence
The candidate:
- has insight in relevant ethical issues relating to the land and environment in the Nordic and Arctic region
- can plan and carry out tasks and projects alone or as part of a group and in accordance with ethical requirements and principles
- Can gather, assess, and communicate information from international publications in line with social science’s ethical principles.
- can comunicate important academic material such as theories, problems and solutions, both in writing and orally, as well as using other relevant forms of communication
- can exchange opinions with others with a background in the field and participate in discussions concerning the development of good practice
- is familiar with new ideas and innovative processes within land and environment studies
On campus students: In-person lectures, student-centered class discussions, seminar-based sessions, and screenings of documentary films
Online students: Synchronous online lectures and student-centered class discussions
Compound assessment (SV), grading A - F:
Course work (AK):
Written assignments (answers to 4 module questions).
Grading: approved/not approved.
Oral Exam (MU):
The exam consists of an oral examination.
Grading: A-F.
The oral exam accounts for 100/100 of the final exam grade.
Course work an exam will be conducted in English, and must be answered in English.
Passing both AK and MU is required to successfully complete the course.
Overlap refers to a similarity between courses with the same content. Therefore, you will receive the following reduction in credits if you have taken the courses listed below:
BCS115X - Land and Environment of the Circumpolar North - 10 credits