Introduction to the Arctic (5cr)

Evaluation scale

H-5

Objective

The introductory course aims to establish a common ground for further Arctic studies.

After completion of the course, the student is able to
- discuss the main features of Arctic nature and society
- recognize different approaches and multidisciplinary character of the Arctic research
- discuss some geophysical phenomena, which occur only in northern areas or do have particular consequences there
- judge the viability of information given, e.g. in media regarding the Arctic areas.

Execution methods

Lectures and exercises (14 h), excursion (8 h), independent work (110 h).

Accomplishment methods

Active participation in the lectures, reading requested course material, successful completion of a written exam.

Content

The course contains the following themes:
- Introduction to the circumpolar Arctic and its complexities in the fields of natural sciences, law and politics, people, cultures and identities, as well as society and economy
- Definition of the Arctic from different ecological viewpoints
- Definition of the Arctic/North as space and place from a representational viewpoint – concepts, images, discourses
- Living in a cold environment and uses of cold
- Introduction to the nature and natural resources of Arctic and Boreal Regions
- Threats to the Arctic environment
- Land use questions in Sápmiland
- Introduction to the Arctic governance
- Introduction to the Arctic and Antarctic information sources
- One day excursion in Rovaniemi area and visit of the exhibition at the Arktikum-house.

Materials

Literature (compulsory):
CAFF (2013). Arctic biodiversity assessment: Status and trends in arctic biodiversity. Available at: https://www.caff.is/assessment-series/233-arctic-biodiversity-assessment-2013 (Please read: Introduction, Indigenous peoples and biodiversity, and chapters: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 18, 19).

Larsen, J. N. & Fondahl, G. (Eds) (2014). Arctic Human Development Report: Regional Processes and Global Linkages. TemaNord. Copenhagen: Nordic council of Ministers. Available at: http://norden.diva-portal.org/smash/record.jsf?pid=diva2%3A788965&dswid=-3234 (Chapters: 2, 3, 4, 8, 10, 11, 12).


Literature (suggested):
Armstrong, T., Rogers, G. & Rowley, G. (1978). The circumpolar North: A political and economic geography of the Arctic and sub-Arctic. London: Methuen&Co.

Hamelin, L. E. (1979). Canadian Nordicity: It’s your North, too. Montreal: Harvest House.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Fail: Performance is highly deficient or erroneous. The work may be based on serious misunderstandings.

Sufficient and satisfactory (1-2): Performance is lacking in scope, superficial, or corresponds poorly to the assignment. The author merely lists things out of context or addresses them one-sidedly. The work may contain errors or obscurities.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

Good and very good (3-4): Performance corresponds to the assignment, manifesting comprehension and a skill to analyse and justify. The author has addressed the issue comprehensively. The work may contain some deficiencies.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Excellent (5): Performance delineates an extensive whole and the author can apply knowledge in a multifaceted way or place it in various contexts. The work manifests independency and insight, and it is a flawless entity that involves justified thinking or critical contemplation. The work is well written and implemented.

Qualifications

No previous studies required.

Further information

8.9. Lecture will be live online only.

14.9. (8 hours) Excursion to Ounasvaara and Visit to the exhibition of the Arktikum (mandatory).