Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years (1.8.2018-31.7.2020), which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
After completing the course, the student
- Can discuss the main sociological viewpoints to urban questions
- Is able to use sociological tools to analyze urban phenomena ranging from the structural development of the city to urban politics and cultures
- Understands the contemporary trends and tensions in present-day urban policies, and can relate them to the development of Helsinki and other cities
- Can find, define and develop new research questions in the field.
Credits: 5
Schedule: 11.03.2019 - 29.04.2019
Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Anssi Joutsiniemi
Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation):
Contact information for the course (applies in this implementation):
CEFR level (applies in this implementation):
Language of instruction and studies (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):
Teaching language: English
Languages of study attainment: English
CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD
Content
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
This course opens up a sociological perspective on the development of cities and to the life that happens in the cities. Why does urbanization happen? How do cities develop? What are the characteristics of life in cities? In this course, these questions are approached by reading both classical and contemporary sociological thinkers, utilizing as pragmatist as well as structural theories, and by using examples from Finland and around the world. Topics discussed range from the effects of welfare state and global capitalism on the urban development, to the democracy and governance as it plays out in urban arena, and to the effects of urban life on its dwellers via segregation and other social processes. We also pay attention to the question whether results of urban studies are applicable globally.
Assessment Methods and Criteria
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
The course consists of lectures, reading seminars, and a final essay, which is an analysis of contemporary urban area or urban phenomenon using the tools provided by the course.
The course is graded on a scale from 0-5. The grading is based on activity on lectures and reading seminars (20%) and a final essay (80%).
DETAILS
SDG: Sustainable Development Goals
11 Sustainable Cities and Communities
15 Life on Land