Local and Regional Development, 15 Credits

Contents

The course departs from the differences in various types of development which can be seen at local, regional, national and global level. What are the processes that contribute to these spatial patterns and changes over time? How can scientific approaches and methods contribute to an enhanced understanding of the causes behind these often complex processes, as well as inform political decision-making to contribute to a more sustainable development? During the course concepts, theories, and issues related to geographical perspectives on development, as well as local and regional development planning, are introduced. Focus is on conditions in developed economies, especially Sweden, the Nordic countries and Europe. The territorial developments during recent decades are emphasized, but more long-term perspectives are also applied during the course. In addition, potential conflicts of interest in strategic planning and decision-making are discussed from a sustainability perspective.

Expected learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student is expected to have:

Knowledge and understanding

1 Knowledge of geographical concepts and theories linked to local and regional development and understanding of how the subject has developed over time

2 Knowledge of planning strategies to promote local and regional development with consideration of sustainability aspects

3 Understanding of how globalization affects development at different geographical levels, in particular locally and regionally

Skills and Abilities

4 Ability to describe and relate the sustainability development goals to themes important for local and regional development

5 Ability to search for current research in a field linked to the focus of the course and compile this in writing with correct reference management and also present orally

6 Ability to independently identify and formulate relevant research questions to carry out a study based on given instructions and time frames

7 Ability to apply geographical concepts and theories in descriptions and analyzes of regional development, as well as being able to present this in writing and orally

Judgement and approach

8 Ability to assess and discuss different perspectives and strategies regarding local and regional sustainable development, related to the consequences for, for example, individuals/households, groups in society, companies, trade and industry, and geographical areas

9 Ability to critically review theoretical points of departure, choice of methods, and conclusions in scientific publications dealing with sustainable local and regional development

Required Knowledge

Univ: 120 ECTS, 60 ECTS of which in a major field of subject.,

Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.

Form of instruction

Teaching arrangement

Teaching is mainly given in the form of lectures, supervision and seminars where the student is expected to participate actively. The seminars are examining. Teaching is in English.

Examination modes

The course is examined through the following assignments:

- An individual written assignment presented orally at a seminar (0-10 points)

- A term paper (individual major written assignment) presented orally at a seminar (0-30 points)

- Four literature seminars based on the course literature (0-2 points, at least 1 point for passing the assignment), oral presentation and active participation are required for pass

- Six literature seminars, of which attendance is required at four. Presentation of a scientific article on one occasion, as well as active participation in at least three other occasions where other students present. These literature seminars are assessed with 2 points for each approved participation or 0 points for failed participation

The assignments are scored in accordance with the information above. At least 50 percent of the maximum points on each assignment is required for a pass. The maximum score for the course is 60 points. In order to pass the entire course, all examinations must be passed. Assignments submitted late are given no more than 70 percent of the maximum points for that assignment.

If revisions are required in order to pass on an assignment, a revised version has to be submitted within 10 working days from announcement of points by the teacher. Grading for the entire course is given when all examinations have been passed. The grading scale for the course is Pass with distinction (VG), Pass (G) or Fail (U). To receive Pass with distinction (VG) for the whole course, the student must have received at least 75 percent of the maximum points.

If special reasons exist, the examiner have the right to decide for another examination form. For students in need of special pedagogical support due to disabilities, individual adaptation of examination forms should always be considered based on the student's needs.  The examination form is adjusted within the framework of the course syllabus' intended learning outcomes. The course coordinating teacher shall, upon request from the student, consult with the examiner to quickly decide on an adjusted form of examination. The decision shall then be conveyed to the student.

It is not possible to appeal against a received grade, i.e. to get it examined by a higher authority, but a student can always criticize the grading or ask the examiner to reconsider the examination.

Students who have passed an examination cannot redo the examination to receive a higher grade. For students who have not passed an ordinary examination occasion, a new occasion for examination (a re-sit) is offered according to Umeå University's Grading and examination regulations for first- and second-cycle studies (Regulation FS 1.1.2-553-14). A re-sit shall be offered no later than two months after the ordinary examination occasion, but no less than ten working days after the results of the ordinary examination have been announced. 

A student who on two occasions has failed an examination has the right to have another examiner appointed if there are no specific reasons for not doing so (HF chap. 6, §22). Such a request shall be processed as soon as possible. A written request for an alternative examiner should be handed to the director of undergraduate studies.

Academic credit transfer

A student has the right to apply for a transfer of credits for previous education or activity. Applications regarding transfer of credits are processed by Student Services https://www.umu.se/en/student/my-studies/transfer-of-credits/

Other regulations

Other regulations

In case a course syllabus is no longer valid or has undergone significant revisions, students are guaranteed at least three examination sessions (including the regular examination session) according to the course syllabus the student initially was registered on, for a maximum