MONASH UNIVERSITY FACULTY HANDBOOKS

Science Handbook 1996

Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996

GES4820

Seminar in geography

Associate Professor Jim Whitelaw

Objectives In participating in this subject, successful students will show that they can understand the history and nature of the discipline; appreciate that there are many ways of knowing - epistemologies; interpret geographical literature within the framework of various paradigms; evaluate the differing viewpoints in the discipline; make a verbal presentation of a seminar to class members; independently formulate and execute a research proposal for the honours thesis under the guidance of a supervisor; practice the presentation of research results to a critical audience.

Synopsis This subject is conducted during the first half of the year. It examines both substance and research methodology in human and physical geography in a contemporary context. It aims to provide a contextual framework for the theses of honours students. Students will be assessed on a research seminar and a three-hour examination at mid-year. The seminar continues to meet in the second half of the year where it provides a forum for discussion on individual thesis projects.

Assessment Written (6000 words): 50% + Examinations (3 hours): 50%

Prescribed texts

• Unwin T The place of geography Longman, 1992

Recommended texts

• Clark M J and others (eds) Horizons in physical geography Macmillan, 1989
• Flew A A dictionary of philosophy Pan, 1979
• Gregory D and Walford R (eds) Horizons in human geography Macmillan, 1989
• Gregory K The nature of physical geography Arnold, 1986
• Harvey D Social justice and the city Arnold, 1973
• Harvey D Explanation in geography Arnold, 1969
• Harvey M F and Holly B P Themes in geographic thought Croom Helm, 1981
• Holt-Jensen A Geography: Its history and concepts Harper and Row, 1980
• Johnston R J Geography and geographers Arnold, 1981
• Johnston R J Philosophy and human geography Arnold, 1983
• Johnston R J and others Dictionary of human geography 3rd edn, Blackwell, 1993
• Kuhn T S The structure of scientific revolutions 2nd edn, U Chicago P, 1970
• Lacey A R A dictionary of philosophy RKP, 1979
• Livingstone D The geographical tradition Blackwell, 1992
• Stoddart D R Geography, ideology and social concern Blackwell, 1981