These characteristics are related to the consumption, production, and exchange of goods and services. The scientific approach to the analysis of this spatial distribution and its interrelationships involves two aspects, which are equally important. The first is the collection of facts or data, and the second is the synthesis of these facts into meaningful theories of great interest to economic geographers in the quantitative analysis of spatial distributions to discern the presence and form of patterns. A systematic, conceptual, methodological framework is devised as a basis to view the various regions. Included is the survey of Mexico, countries of Central American, major countries and areas of the West Indies, and all the South American countries.
Emphasis is placed upon regional comparisons.
The relations of Latin American countries among themselves and the rest of the world are stressed. A unifying and concrete experience in the field. The course provides students opportunity to observe, analyze and discuss natural and cultural phenomena and patterns through both extensive and intensive exposure to the environments of the U.S. and Canada. Three sh may be credited towards lab science requirements in general education.