This interdisciplinary module introduces to a range of key concepts and discourses in the field of development geography with a specific focus on the global South. The module begins by conceptualising 'development' as well as introducing contemporary development theories to build the foundation. The module then applies this understanding in examining a selection of contemporary development issues and debates in the global South context including poverty, inequality, impacts of climate change, nature of disasters, gendered vulnerabilities, and the challenges of sustainable development. Here context and place matters, as well as the differences and links between places and peoples.
Students are introduced to a series of global South case studies that illustrate development processes as connected to social, economic and political processes at different scales. Although development approaches are equally applicable to urban and rural environments, the focus in this module is predominantly on the urban context and the contestations within them.
The module is divided into several sections, each of which introduces students to a set of issues, concepts, key vocabularies and approaches in relevance to Development Geography. The sections of the modules are complementary to each other and as a whole they will provide a strong understanding of the development context and processes in the global South.
Students are strongly encouraged to think of the module as a whole and to explore the connections between the different issues and theoretical approaches addressed in this module.
Total contact hours 22
Private study hours 128
Total study hours 150
Compulsory to : BSc in Human Geography
Optional to : BSc in Wildlife Conservation, BSc Anthropology, BA in Environmental Social Science (and cognate courses)
Available as an elective module.
Essay 2,000 words 40%
Examination 2 hours 60%
Reassessment instrument: 100% coursework
*Exams will be in-person*
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Assimilate knowledge of the key concepts and discourses surrounding development.
2. Understand and critically analyse the development approaches and processes in the global South.
3. Acquire specific knowledge about the key influencing drivers of the contemporary development processes in the global South context.
4. Understand the interaction between development and other contemporary issues such as climate change, poverty, inequality and sustainability.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
