Nine Fundamentals of Geographic Learning

The Department of Geography has identified nine fundamental elements of geography to emphasize in its undergraduate curriculum. These nine elements are at the intersection of topically important areas in the discipline of geography. We continue to evaluate student learning in our program to insure our curriculum addresses these fundamental elements as effectively as possible.

Element 1 - Human Environment Interactions

Students shall be able to characterize and evaluate how human modifications of the environment affect Earth’s biophysical systems, and how Earth’s biophysical systems influence and modify human activity.

Element 2 - Spatial Variation

Students shall develop the ability to identify and evaluate the dynamics of spatial variations in the human and physical environments.

Element 3 - Place

Students shall develop the ability to recognize and understand the processes by which humans give meaning to places.

Element 4 - Biophysical Systems

Students shall be able to identify and explain the array of patterns, processes and interactions in Earth’s biophysical systems occurring at different spatial scales.

Element 5 - Scale

Students shall be able to recognize and explain how local, regional and global processes interact to produce physical and human systems.

Element 6 - Change

Students shall recognize that human and physical systems are characterized by constant change, and that an appreciation of the past, current and future conditions of these systems is vital to understand the nature of geographic phenomena.

Element 7 - Visualization and Representation

Students shall develop the ability to use multiple methods to represent and visualize Earth and its geographic characteristics, and to appropriately interpret their meaning.

Element 8 - Geographic Methods and Analysis

Students shall demonstrate the ability to recognize the appropriate tools and techniques for solving geographic problems and conducting geographic analysis.

Element 9 - Human/Cultural Systems

Students shall be able to identify and explain the patterns, processes, and interactions of people on Earth through their resulting settlements, movements, the cultural mosaic and economic activities.