This module is concerned with studying the geographical dimensions of economic activity - i.e. why, where and how firms create jobs and wealth, where people work and earn money, uneven development and globalisation, innovation and technological change, and the role of the state in shaping the geographies of economies. The module primarily focuses on analysing manufacturing and service sectors, using contemporary economic geography perspectives. It also considers the role of different actors (such as large transnational firms and governments) in shaping the geography of economic activity.

• Understand the geographies of economic activity;
• Describe and critically examine contemporary theories of economic geography, and assess the relevance of these theories;
• Explain and critically judge the economic, social, political and environmental impacts of the geographies of economic activity

The module will be delivered through lectures and seminars, in-person and on campus unless mitigating circumstances arise. Seminars will enable small group discussion about key issues relevant to the module. Students are expected to engage with additional module content on Learning Central e.g. readings or other material, to prepare for lectures and seminars, and to supplement and deepen taught components.

1. Subject-related:

• Use theoretical propositions to guide the collection of case study material and data relating to the geography of economic activity
• Use case study material and data to explore, illustrate and test theoretical propositions.
• Read and understand intermediate level economic and geographical arguments about economic geography and explain them to others.
• Discuss theoretical ideas, policy issues and evidence.

2. Transferable:

• handle conceptual and factual material in both oral and written forms;
• write clearly and competently, and to make reflective comments upon topics learned;
• use online resources effectively to extend the insights given in lectures;
• participate in discussions and debate relevant theoretical, empirical and policy issues.

3. Values/attitudes:    

• Develop reasoned arguments and demonstrate the ability to critically assess and evaluate evidence and claims;
• understand that markets create wealth and can redistribute resources progressively (particularly over time) as well as generating social costs and increasing inequality;
• understand the role that governments can play in redistributing wealth and resources, as well as reducing social costs and inequalities;
• understand that the geography of economies can be significantly shaped by the self-interest of key players, including governments;
• understand how different viewpoints and ideologies can influence both theoretical and empirical analyses of the geography of economic activity.

A blend of coursework and portfolio assessment

Formative Assessment

Formative assessment takes place throughout the module.  There are learning checks in every lecture and the workshops which support the assessments provide an opportunity for peer to peer and tutor feedback.

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE:

Re-assessment

Students are permitted to be reassessed in a module which they have failed, in line with University regulations. https://intranet.cardiff.ac.uk/staff/teaching-and-supporting-students/teaching-support/academic-regulations. You will only be reassessed on the components of the module in which you have failed. The format of the reassessment will be the same as the original assessment and will take place in the Summer re-sit period.

In a typical year, topics covered by the module might include:

1. Understanding the economy
2. Economic clustering
3. Global networks of production
4. Money and finance
5. Labour markets and work spaces
6. Consumption economies
7. State and economy
8. Geographies of uneven development: the case of the North-South divide
9. Digital capitalism, new technologies and future economies
10. Environment and the economy