The predisposition of the instructor is one of a deep appreciation of geography, history, cities and people. The course uses an historic geographic perspective because spatial change cannot be understood without understanding history and history can not be understood without understanding the importance of space and place. Students learn to think clearly and analytically. Students develop concise and analytical writing skills. Students learn how to develop a thesis.
Students generously contribute to class discussion.
The instructor may deviate from the following weekly schedule if she perceives class discussion pre-empting rigidity or due to unforeseen circumstances. Select two trades or industries from Diderot's Encyclopedia and identify the types of linkages each would forge. Student selects a city not discussed in class. Attendance, Participation and one page submitted identifying thesis of research paper. There will be unannounced group discussions on readings.