GEOG 2221: Regional Geography of Canada
This course examines the physical, human and economic geography of Canada, from a regional context. Students focus on the many interconnections and relationships between the different regions, between different areas in the regions, and between cities and the rural areas in each region. The distribution patterns of people, cultural groups, and economic activities is explored to illustrate how the regions are part of larger interconnected systems (e.g. Canada, North America, or the Pacific Rim). The course is designed to promote an understanding of the similarities and differences between different areas across Canada, and to develop students' skills in recognizing and analyzing the salient geographical features of those regions and the country as a whole.
Learning outcomes
- Understand the discipline of geography and the regional approach in geography.
- Understand the origins and significance of regional and spatial variations characterizing Canada.
- Understand key regional concerns and the source of regional tensions.
- Understand differences between regions as economic actors and regions as cultural homelands.
- Be able to read and interpret academic writing, engage in critical analysis, gather and analyze simple data, and write critical and reflective review papers.
Course topics
- Introduction
- Understanding Region
- Defining Region
- Ontario
- Quebec
- Atlantic Canada
- Prairies (Western Canada)
- British Columbia
- The Territorial North
- Conclusion
Required text and materials
The following materials are required for this course:
- Bone, R. M. (2022). The Regional Geography of Canada (8th ed.). Don Mills, ON:
Oxford University Press.
Type: Textbook. ISBN: 9780199037766
Assessments
To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher in the overall course and 50% or higher on the mandatory Final Project.
| Quiz 1 | 3% |
| Quiz 2 | 3% |
| Assignment 1: What Distinguishes Canada’s Regions? | 5% |
| Quiz 3 | 3% |
| Assignment 2: Core/Periphery, Faultlines, and Identifying Regions | 15% |
| Quiz 4 | 3% |
| Quiz 5 | 3% |
| Assignment 3: Regional Analysis | 20% |
| Final Project (mandatory) | 45% |
| Total | 100% |
Open Learning Faculty Member Information
An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.
