UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF ARTS
GEOGRAPHY DIVISION
Catalogue of Study-Units
available during academic year
2012 - 2013
Code
GEO1003 – SEM 1
Title
SKILLS IN GEOGRAPHY I
Type
Lectures and Practicals
ECTS credits
5 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 2 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Ms Ritienne Gauci + Mr Andrea Pace
Description
This course consists of two-hour practical sessions during
which students are introduced with the basic techniques of
cartography. Students will be requested to perform several
practical mapping exercises using appropriate tools..
Learning Outcomes and By the end of the course, students will be able to identify
Objectives.
between different types of maps and represent spatial data
accordingly.
Reading List
• Dent, B., Torguson, J. and Hodler, T. 2008.
Cartography: Thematic Map Design, 6th edition,
McGraw-Hill Science, New York.
• Kimerling, A.J., Buckley, A.R., Muehrcke, P.C. and
Muehrcke, J.O. 2009. Map Use: Reading and
Analysis, 6th edition, ESRI Press, Redlands.
• Kraak, M-J. and Ormeling, F. 2003. Cartography:
Visualization of Geospatial Data, 2nd edition, Pearson
Education, London.
• Ross, S. 2003. Basic Mapwork Skills, Nelson Thornes
Ltd., Cheltenham.
• Slocum, T.A., McMaster, R.B., Kessler, F.C. and
Howard, H.H. 2008. Thematic Cartography and
Geovisualization, 3rd edition, Prentice Hall, Essex.
2
KNOWLEDGE
At the end of the
course the learner will
be exposed to the
following specialised
knowledge:
Knowledge of the
theoretical approaches
associated with the
analysis of security
studies and
contemporary security
issues
Knowledge of debates
over traditional security
issues and contemporary
warfare
Knowledge on
contemporary debates
on the impact of
globalisation on the rise
of soft security issues.
Knowledge of
international security
architecture developed
to address security
issues
SKILLS
At the end of
the course the
learner will
have mastered
the following
skills:
Ability to
analyse security
issues according
to Realist,
Liberalist and
Constructivist
approaches
Discuss
evolving
definitions and
the nature of
warfare and
traditional
security issues
Ability to
identify the
impact of
globalisation on
traditional
security issues
as well as on the
emergence of
non-traditional
security threats
Ability to
discuss the
objectives, role
and
achievements
of international
security
organisations
3
COMPETENCE
At the end of the
course the learner
will have acquired
the responsibility
and autonomy to:
LEARNING
OUTCOMES
At the end of the
course the learner
will be able to
Ability to identify
and discuss the
strengths and
weaknesses of the
varying theoretical
approaches to the
analysis of security
issues
Ability to identify
evolving types of
warfare that have
developed due to
political and
technological
considerations
Ability to discuss the
changing character of
contemporary
security issues.
Examine and discuss
security issues
according to
theoretical approaches
Ability to gauge the
successes, strengths
and weaknesses of
international security
architecture
An understanding of
the evolving
international security
framework due to
globalisation and the
evolving security
agenda
Discuss the impact of
developments on the
nature and character
of war on strategic
theory and
contemporary warfare
An understanding of
the increasingly transboundary character of
contemporary security
threats.
Code
GEO1004 – SEM 2
Title
SKILLS IN GEOGRAPHY II
Type
Lectures and Practicals
ECTS credits
5 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
GEO1003
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 2 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturers
Ms Ritienne Gauci + Mr Mark Sultana
Description
This study-unit is available for students who have attended
GEO1003 Skills in Geography I.
Lectures provide
information on more advanced techniques used in data
interpretation and representation.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives.
Students will be expected to have gained the necessary skills
in the use of maps, graphs, charts and aerial photo
interpretation applied to geographical research.
Reading List
•
•
•
•
•
Dent, B., Torguson, J. and Hodler, T. 2008.
Cartography: Thematic Map Design, 6th edition,
McGraw-Hill Science, New York.
Kimerling, A.J., Buckley, A.R., Muehrcke, P.C. and
Muehrcke, J.O. 2009. Map Use: Reading and
Analysis, 6th edition, ESRI Press, Redlands.
Kraak, M-J. and Ormeling, F. 2003. Cartography:
Visualization of Geospatial Data, 2nd edition, Pearson
Education, London.
Ross, S. 2003. Basic Mapwork Skills, Nelson Thornes
Ltd., Cheltenham.
Slocum, T.A., McMaster, R.B., Kessler, F.C. and
Howard, H.H. 2008. Thematic Cartography and
Geovisualization, 3rd edition, Prentice Hall, Essex.
4
Code
GEO1010 – SEM 2
Title
OCEANOGRAPHY AND GEOMORPHOLOGY
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 2 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Mr Avertano Role
Description
This unit examines the fundamental processes which drive
two domains of physical geography: oceanography and
geomorphology. These include plate boundary dynamics,
geostratigraphy, depositional landforms, erosion, fluvial
dynamics, and principles of marine ecology The emphasis lies
on the spatial distribution of the processes under investigation
as well as the interaction between apparently discrete
phenomena.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives.
On completion of this study unit, students would be able to
identify these processes and analyze their interaction at a
variety of scales ranging from the local to the global scale.
Students are also expected to use the knowledge they have
gained to explain simple environmental phenomena.
• Hamblin,W.K. and Christiansen, E.H. (2004) Earth’s
Dynamic Systems (10th ed.) Prentice Hall, New Jersey
• McKnight T. and Hess ., (2007) Physical Geography;
a landscape appreciation (9th ed.), Pearson/Prentice
Hall, U.K.
• Pinet, P. (2008) Invitation to Oceanography, (5th ed.)
Jones and Bartlett, USA.
• Smithson, P.A., Addison, K., Atkinson, K., (2008)
Fundamentals of the Physical Environment, (4th ed.)
Routledge, U.K.
• Strahler, A., and
Strahler A., (2005) Physical
Geography - Science and Systems of the Human
Environment (3rd ed.), John Wiley, New York
Reading List
5
Code
GEO1012 – SEM 1
Title
CLIMATE AND BIOGEOGRAPHY
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 2 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Mr Avertano Role
Description
This unit examines the fundamental processes which drive two
domains of physical geography: climatology and biogeography. These
include atmospheric structure and circulation, insolation and
atmospheric disturbances, climatic classification and global climate
change. Such processes determine the global patterns of biogeography
(biomes) but micro factors and historical factors are also analyzed. The
basic principles of ecology are discussed in such a way as to enable
students to identify ecosystems at a variety of geographical scales.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives.
On completion of this study unit, students would be able to identify
climatic and biogeographical processes and analyze their interaction at
a variety of scales ranging from the local to the global scale. Students
are also expected to use the knowledge they have gained to explain
simple environmental phenomena.
Reading List
•
•
•
•
•
Aguado, E. & Burt, J. E. (2009) Understanding
Weather and Climate, (5th ed.) Prentice Hall, New
Jersey. [This book includes a CD-ROM]
Lomolino M., Riddle B.R. and Brown J.H. (2006)
Biogeography (3rd ed.) Sinauer, Mass. USA
MacDonald G. (2003) Biogeography: Introduction to
Space, Time and Life, Wiley, New York.
McKnight T. and Hess, (2007) Physical Geography; a
landscape appreciation (9th ed.), Pearson/Prentice
Hall, U.K.
Smithson, P.A., Addison, K., Atkinson, K., (2008)
Fundamentals of the Physical Environment, (4th ed.)
Routledge, U.K.
6
Code
GEO1015 – SEM 1
Title
FIELDWORK IN HUMAN GEOGRAPHY
Type
Lectures and Fieldwork
ECTS credits
2 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Fieldwork 100%
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr. John A. Schembri and Dr. Maria Attard
Description
A field programme led by two of the academic members of
the Geography Division. The fieldwork includes four field
trips carried out throughout the first semester of the first year
of the study programme. These sessions will demonstrate
skills and fieldwork covering different elements from the
human geography component.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
The students will be able to collect information from the
fields, record evidence indicating changes in the human
environment use and sketch maps.
Reading List
•
•
Clifford, N.J. and Valentine, G. (Ed) 2003 Key
Methods in Geography. Sage.
Homes, D. and Farbrother, D. 2002 A-Z Advancing
Geography Fieldwork Geographical Association.
Sheffield.
7
Code
GEO1016 – SEM 2
Title
FIELDWORK IN PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
Type
Lectures and Fieldwork
ECTS credits
2 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Fieldwork 100%
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Mr Avertano Role and Ritienne Gauci
Description
This fieldwork course includes four field sessions related to
different aspects of physical geography. Students are assigned
field projects related to physical aspects of the Maltese
environment and are required to work in groups.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
Through these fieldwork sessions, students acquire field
techniques together with teamwork skills.
Reading List
•
•
Holmes, D. and Farbrother, D. 2000. A-Z Advancing
Geography: Fieldwork, Geographical Association,
Sheffield.
Lenon, B.J. and Cleves, P.G. 2001. Fieldwork
Techniques and Projects in Geography, 2nd revised
edition, Collins Educational, Glasgow.
8
Code
GEO1028 – SEM 1
Title
POPULATION, CULTURE AND SOCIETY I
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 2 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr. John A. Schembri, Dr. Maria Attard and Ms Therese Bajada
Description
The study-unit covers the development of human geography as an
academic discipline and then focuses on population geography as
conditioned by demographic and socio-economic factors. The
objectives of this study unit are to explain the development of
demography studies and its applicability to geography, various
aspects of cultural geography and a workshop describing the census
process. Students will be able to comprehend the various aspects of
human geography and be aware of the relevance of the census
process to population management.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
Students will be able to comprehend the various aspects of human
geography and be aware of the relevance of the census process to
population management.
Reading List
•
•
•
•
•
Gregory, D. at al 2009 The Dictionary of Human
Geography Wiley Blackwell.
Holcomb, B., and Attard, M. 2001 Islands in the
(Cyberspace) Sun: Marketing Islands for Tourism Online
Tourism Vol.49 (3) 177-188.
Mitchell, D. 2000 Cultural Geography A Critical
Introduction. Blackwell Publishing
Newbold, K.A. 2006 Six billionplus: World population in
the Twenty-First century. Rowman and Littlefield.
Weeks, J.R. 2002 Population: An introduction to concepts
and issues, 8th ed. Belmont, Wadsworth.
9
Code
GEO1029 – SEM 2
Title
POPULATION, CULTURE AND SOCIETY II
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 2 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr. John A. Schembri, Dr. Maria Attard and Ms Therese
Bajada
Description
This study-unit introduces students to new geographies
explaining spatial diffusion, the spread of innovations and
disease, globalisation, gender and race. This overview will
present the student with a wide range of cultural geographies.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
The student will be able to explain how geography affects
various aspects of the human environment.
• Bell, D. and Valentine, G. (Eds) 1995 Mapping
Desires. Geographies of Sexuality London Routledge
• Livingstone, D.N. 1992 The Geographical Tradition,
Blackwell.
• Pacione, M. 2005 Urban Geography: a global
perspective. Routledge, Oxford.
• Johnston, L., Longhurst, R. (2009) Space, Place, and
Sex: Geographies of Sexualities. AltaMira Press
• McDowell, L. (1998) Gender, Identity and Place:
Understanding Feminist Geographies. Polity Press
Reading List
10
Code
GEO1031 - SEM 1
Title
APPLIED HUMAN GEOGRAPHY
Type
Lectures and Fieldwork
ECTS credits
2 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Assignment 100%
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr John Schembri and Ms Therese Bajada
Description
Applied geography is the use of geographic knowledge as an
aid to reaching decisions over the use of the world’s
resources. The geographer combines the world of opinion
with the world of decision. This unit explores selected
theoretical concepts and applies them to real-world situations
using local case studies as a background for discussion and
practice.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
By the end of the study unit the student will be able to apply
human geography concepts to the real world.
• Gregory, D. at al 2009 The Dictionary of Human
Geography Wiley Blackwell.
• Pacione, M. 1999 Applied geography: principles and
practice. Routledge, London.
Reading List
11
Code
GEO1032 – SEM 2
Title
APPLIED PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
Type
Lectures and Fieldtrips
ECTS credits
2 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Assignment 100%
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Mr Avertano Role
Description
Theoretical knowledge of physical processes operating in the
environment can be utilised to manage and solve problems
related to natural phenomena found in the real world. During
this course students will be introduced to the different fields
of physical geography, such as hydrology and
geomorphology.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
Through specific case studies students will be able to
understand the applied nature of these study areas in dealing
with environmental management issues.
• Arbogast, A.F. 2007. Discovering Physical
Geography, Wiley, Chichester.
• Christopherson, R.W. and Thomsen, C.E. 2008.
Applied Physical Geography: Geosystems in the
Laboratory, 7th edition, Prentice Hall, Essex.
Reading List
12
Code
GEO2000 – SEM 1
Title
GEOLOGY
Type
Lectures and Fieldwork
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Assignment 100%
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr Saviour Scerri
Description
This unit introduces the study of the earth, its crust and the different
landscapes, landforms and varied lithology of the earth surface. The
geological history of the earth, plate movements and the formation
of the Mediterranean Sea are included in the introductory part of the
unit. The unit concludes with lectures on the geology of the Maltese
Islands followed by practical and field sessions.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
Students will be able to understand and interpret the various
geological strata of the Maltese Islands and the factors which lead
to their formation.
Reading List
•
The Field Description of Sedimentary Rocks (Rock
Classes) by Maurice E. Tucker, R. Thorpe, G BROWN, N.
Fry, November 4, 1993,John W
• Barnes, J., 1995 Basic geological mapping, Sussex, Wiley
• Chernikoff, S. and Fox, H.A. 2000 Essentials of Geology,
2nd Ed, Boston Houghton Miffin Company.
• Myers, J.D., McClurg, J.E. and Angevine, C.L., 1999 Lab
Manual for Geology – Chernikoff, Boston, Houghton
Miffin Company.
Pedley, M., Hughes-Clarke, M. Galea, P. 2002 Limestone Isles in a
Crystal Sea: the geology of the Maltese Islands. PEG Malta.
13
Code
GEO2005 – SEM 2
Title
PHYSICAL STRUCTURE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
Type
Lectures and Fieldwork
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 70% Field Report 30%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Mr Avertano Role
Description
This unit is an analysis of the physical structure of the
Mediterranean basin and the eco-geographical processes
which shape its climate, vegetation, land, and seas. The
human impact on this region is also addressed since human
occupation has had such a profound effect on the
environment of this particular region.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
By the end of this course, participating students would be
able to identify the main geo-environmental processes that
shape the Mediterranean landscape and analyze the
linkages between such processes and human activities.
Reading List
•
Allen, H. D, (2001) Mediterranean Ecogeography, Pearson
Education, Essex UK.
•
Grove, A.T., Rackham, O., (2001) The Nature of
Mediterranean Europe; an ecological history, Yale Univ.
Press, New Haven
•
King, R., De Mas, P., and Mansvelt Beck, J., (eds.) (2001)
Geography, Environment and Development in the
Mediterranean, Sussex Academic Press, Brighton U.K.
•
Benoit, G. and Comeau, A. (2005) A Sustainable Future for
the Mediterranean: The Blue Plan's Environment and
Development Outlook. Earthscan Ltd
•
Woodward, J. (ed.) (2009) The Physical Geography of the
Mediterranean. Oxford University Press
14
Code
GEO2007 – SEM 2
Title
APPLIED GEOLOGY I
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Presentation 100%
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr John Schembri and Mr Ivan Calleja
Description
This study-unit presents aspects of applied geology within the
broader context of physical geography. Other topics include
glaciology, sea-level changes and lateral spreading
phenomena.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
Students will become acquainted with foreign and local
environments that are relevant to the course. Elements of
mapping and classifying the degrees of hazards are also
undertaken.
Reading List
•
•
•
•
Chernikoff, S. and Fox, H.A. 2000 Essentials of
Geology, 2nd Ed, Boston Houghton Miffin Company.
Myers, J.D., McClurg, J.E. and Angevine, C.L. 1999
Lab Manual for Geology – Chernikoff, Boston,
Houghton Miffin Company
Pacione, M. 1999 Applied geography: principles and
practice. Routledge, London.
Reynolds, J.M. 1996 An introduction to Applied and
Environmental Geophysics, Sussex, Wiley.
15
Code
GEO2020 – SEM 2
Title
COASTAL PROCESSES AND LANDFORMS
Type
Lectures and Fieldwork
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 60%; Presentation 40%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Ms Ritienne Gauci
Description
This study-unit deals with the basic principles of coastal
geomorphology, explaining the important roles of waves and
tides in shaping the coastline.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
By the end of this unit, students would have gained enough
knowledge to be able to explain the erosional and depositional
processes and the resulting coastal landforms, especially
within the context of the Maltese Islands.
• Bird, E. 2008. Coastal Geomorphology: An
Introduction, 2nd edition, Wiley, Chichester.
• Davis, R.A. and Fitzgerald, D.M. 2003. Beaches and
Coasts, Blackwell, Oxford.
• Magri, O. 2006. ‘A geological and geomorphological
review of the Maltese Islands with special reference to
the coastal zone’, Territoris, 6, 7-26.
• Masselink, G. and Hughes, M.G. 2003. An
Introduction
to
Coastal
Processes
and
Geomorphology, Hodder Education, London.
Reading List
16
Code
GEO2025 – SEM 1
Title
LAND DEGRADATION AND DESERTIFICATION
Type
Lectures and Project
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 50%; Assignment 50%
Duration: 1 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Mr Avertano Role
Description
Desertification and Land Degradation is fast becoming one of the
most pressing environmental problems of our time. The first part
of the study unit is devoted to a discussion of the problem within
a global context while a second part discusses the unique
character of Mediterranean desertification and the resultant
regional patterns of the problem. A third section is concerned
with management issues and drought mitigation measures.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
Upon completion of the study unit, students would identify the
main physical and human factors that cause desertification and
analyse their consequences. Students would also be expected to
compare a variety of case studies and evaluate the various
management strategies aimed at combating desertification.
Reading List
•
Johnson D.L, and Lewis L.A., (2007) Land
Degradation: Creation and Destruction (2nd ed.) Rowman &
Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
•
Mainguet M. (1994) Desertification: Natural
Background and Human Mismanagement (2nd edition)
Springer Verlag, Berlin
•
Zdruli P. & Trisorio Liuzzi G. (2004-7) Medcoastland
Project Network series
•
Rolé A. et al (2005) Sustainable Rural Land
Management in the Maltese Islands etc., in Zdruli and Trisorio
Liuzzi (eds.) Medcoastland
•
Rolé, A. (1999) Land Degradation and urbanisation in
an island state in Baldacchino and Tanti (eds.) National
Awareness Seminar on Desertification and Land Degradation,
Environment Protection Department, Malta.
17
Code
GEO2035 - SEM 2
Title
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Type
Lectures and Practicals
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Practical 70%, Exam 30%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr Maria Attard and Ms Therese Bajada
Description
The aim of this study-unit is to understand the processes of
handling and analyzing geographical data. This unit is
supported by lectures, practical exercises and a rich vein of
paper and web-based learning resources.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
Students will be able to understand the concepts of GIS as
well as apply, using industry standard software the application
of GIS and geographical analysis.
• Burrough, P. 1986 Principles of Geographic
Information Systems for Land Resources Assessment,
Oxford Science Publications
• Clarke, K. 2000 Getting Started with Geographic
Information Systems, Prentice Hall.
• .Heywood, I. et al 2006 An introduction to Geographic
Information Systems. Prentice Hall
• Longley, P. et al 2010 Geographic Information
Systems and Science. John Wiley and Sons
Reading List
18
Code
GEO2038 - SEM 2
Title
REMOTE SENSING
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
2 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
100% Assignment
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Foreign Lecturer
Description
This study aims to provide students with a basic understanding
of remote sensing including fundamental principles, satellite
instruments and applications.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
By the end of this study-unit students should be able to: define
remote sensing and describe passive/active techniques,
observing frameworks, electromagnetic spectrum and
spectroscopy; write down equations governing radiative
transfer through the atmosphere and calculate simple
quantities such as temperature and transmission; be able to
process satellite imagery; list the applications of remote
sensing to the Earth system, i.e., to atmosphere, terrestrial and
marine; differentiate techniques such as passive and active,
multi-wavelength; describe the use of passive instruments such
as radiometers and spectrometers.
• Campbell, J.B. 2007 Introduction to Remote Sensing
Taylor and Francis
• Lillesand, T. et al 2008 Remote Sensing and Image
Interpretation Wiley
Reading List
19
Code
GEO2050 – SEM 1
Title
HISTORICAL AND POLITICAL GEOGRAPHY
Type
Lectures and Fieldwork
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 50% Fieldwork 50%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr. John A. Schembri
Description
This study-unit aims to integrate the geography of a region
with its historical development. The main features of the
course are to highlight the Mediterranean region with its
diverse geographical features and to introduce the concepts
of time and space from a regional perspective. The study
unit provides a broad coverage of the subject, moving from
the consideration of a state as a political system to an
examination of the world system. This unit also examines
in detail a number of terrestrial and maritime boundary
problems.
Emphasis is laid on the geographical
implications in delimiting, demarcating and allocating
boundaries.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
Students will be able to develop an understanding of the
historical and political implications in the creation of spaces
and places.
Reading List
•
Anderson, E.W. 2000 The Middle East: geography
and geopolitics, Routledge, London.
•
Butlin, R. 1993 Historical Geography, Arnold,
London.
•
Jones, M.R. and Woods, M. 2004 An introduction to
Political Geography. Routledge.
•
Blacksell, M. 2005 Political Geography. Routledge.
20
Code
GEO2072 – SEM 2
Title
SKILLS IN GEOGRAPHY 3
Type
Lectures and Project
ECTS credits
8 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Written Tasks 100%
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr. John A. Schembri, Ms Therese Bajada, Dr. Maria Attard, Mr
Avertano Role and Ms Ritienne Gauci
This study-unit is designed to assist students in their dissertation.
Various themes are presented: the scope of a dissertation, data
collection and interpretation, library sources, use of cartographic
techniques and writing the dissertation. This unit also looks at ways
how to interpret aerial photographs taken from different altitudes
and at a number of scales.
Description
Learning Outcomes
Objectives
Reading List
and Students will be expected to have gained the required skills to
conduct individual research and write a good dissertation.
• Flowerdew, R. and Martin, D. 2005. Methods in Human
Geography: A Guide for Students Doing a Research
Project, 2nd edition, Prentice Hall, Essex.
• Knight, P.G. and Parsons, A.J. 2003. How To Do Your
Essays, Exams and Coursework in Geography and Related
Disciplines, Nelson Thornes, Cheltenham.
• Montello, D.R. and Sutton, P.C. 2006. An Introduction to
Scientific Research Methods in Geography: Concepts and
Techniques, Sage Publications, London.
• Parsons, A.J. and Knight, P.G. 2005. How To Do Your
Dissertation in Geography and Related Disciplines, 2nd
edition, Routledge, London.
• Rogerson, P.A. 2006. Statistical Methods for Geography: A
Student's Guide, 2nd edition, Sage Publications, London.
21
Code
Title
Type
ECTS credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
Method of assessment
Result
Attendance
Lecturer
Description
Learning
Objectives
Reading List
Outcomes
and
GEO3000
DISSERTATION
Dissertation
12 credits
None
Dissertation 100%
Percentage mark & grade
Obligatory
Dr. John A. Schembri, Dr. Maria Attard, Mr Avertano Role, Ms
Ritienne Gauci, Ms Therese Bajada
Each candidate is required to submit a dissertation equivalent to twelve
credits as part of the final B.A.(Hons) examination. This should be an
original piece of research carried out under the supervision of one of
the academic members of staff in the Geography Division.
Students completing their dissertation will have gained skills and
experience in conducting research and integrating academic and
technical concepts through the analysis of local issues.
• Holloway, S.L., Rice, S.P., Valentine, G. and Clifford, N.
(Eds). 2008. Key Concepts in Geography, 2nd edition, Sage
Publications, London.
• Montello, D.R. and Sutton, P.C. 2006. An Introduction to
Scientific Research Methods in Geography: Concepts and
Techniques, Sage Publications, London.
• Parsons, A.J. and Knight, P.G. 2005. How To Do Your
Dissertation in Geography and Related Disciplines, 2nd
edition, Routledge, London.
• Rogerson, P.A. 2006. Statistical Methods for Geography: A
Student's Guide, 2nd edition, Sage Publications, London.
• Rudestam, K.E. and Newton, R.R. 2007. Surviving Your
Dissertation: A Comprehensive Guide to Content and Process,
3rd edition, Sage Publications, London.
22
Code
GEO3001 – SEM 1
Title
COASTAL AND OCEAN MANAGEMENT
Type
Lectures and Fieldwork
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 50%; Fieldwork 50%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Ms Ritienne Gauci
Description
In recent years the need to protect the coastal environment
has led to the development of Coastal Zone Management
(CZM). This course considers in depth the exploitation,
planning and management of coastal and ocean resources,
and the impact on the coastal and marine environments.
Specific reference will be made to the local context, where
students will be able to investigate the coastal conflicts
present in the Maltese Islands and suggest measures to
promote a wiser use of the coastal environment and its
resources.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
Reading List
• Beatley, T., Brower, D. and Schwab, A.K. 2002. An
Introduction to Coastal Zone Management, 2nd edition,
Island Press, Washington DC.
• Cicin-Sain, B. and Knecht, R. 1998. Integrated Coastal
and Ocean Management: Concepts and Practices, Island
Press, Washington DC.
• Clark, J.R. 1996. Coastal Zone Management Handbook,
CRC Press, London.
• Kay, R. 2005. Coastal Planning and Management, 2nd
edition, Taylor & Francis, London.
23
Code
GEO3027 – SEM 2
Title
TRANSPORT GEOGRAPHY
Type
Lectures and Fieldwork
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 70% and Assignment 30%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr. Maria Attard and Ms Therese Bajada
Description
This unit will deal with the issues of land transport systems, geography
and planning. The various aspects related to mobility include a
discussion on the Urban Transport Problem, public transport provision,
sustainability and the environment, with the externalities associated
with hyper-mobility. Geography will help to understand patterns of
urban structures and the various techniques used in transport research,
whilst the underlying principles of transport systems, which are modal
choice, trip purpose, trip generation and distribution, will show how the
transport network functions. Technological advances in both the
transport and communications sector will be discussed in terms of their
impact on movement and the future of land use patterns. Practical
sessions will be an integral part of this unit and each student, either
individually or in teams will be requested to write up a report of the
fieldwork.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
The students will be able to explain concepts of mobility and the
behaviour driving transport geography and will be able to:
-
Reading List
define what is a transport system and its functions
explain the factors that influence a transport system
assess travel behaviour from a geographic point of view
• Adams, J. 1999 The Social Implications of Hypermobility. The
Economic and Social Implications of Sustainable Transport. Paris,
OECD: 95-133.
• Banister, D. 1994 Transport Planning E&FN Spon.
• Graham, S. and Marvin, S. 1996 Telecommunications and the City.
Electronic Spaces, Urban Places Routledge.
• Newman, P., Kenworthy, J. 1996 "The Land use Transport
Connection: an Overview." Land use Policy 13 (1).
• Schwela, D. and Zali, O. 1999 Urban Traffic Pollution E & FN Spon.
24
Code
GEO3082 – SEM 2
Title
ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES
Type
Lectures and Practicals
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 50%, Practical 50%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr Sandro Lanfranco
Description
This study unit introduces the participants to the biodiversity and special
habitats of flora and fauna of the Mediterranean and the Maltese Islands.
Diversity indices, ecological succession and disturbance are also reviewed.
Field studies include measuring and estimating techniques including
transects and quadrate use and its methodology.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
At the end of this study unit, students will:
(1) Be able to describe six interspecific interactions in ecological
communities;
(2) Be able to describe the processes of primary and secondary
ecological succession;
(3) Be able to reconstruct past vegetation communities based on the
observation of various features including pollen records, charcoal
and phytoliths;
(4) Be able to compare the various levels of biological diversity
present within an ecological community or in a group of
communities;
(5) Be able to describe the structure of ecosystems, ecotones and food
webs.
Reading List
•
•
•
•
•
Allen, H.(2000). Mediterranean Ecogeography. Prentice-Hall.
Blondel, J. & Aronson J. (1999)Biology and Wildlife of the
Mediterranean. Oxford University Press.
Blondel, J., Aronson, J., Bodiou, J.Y., Boeuf, G. (2010). The
Mediterranean Region: Biological Diversity through Time and
Space. Second Edition.Oxford University Press.
Grove, A.T. & Rackham, O. (2003). The Nature of
Mediterranean Europe: An Ecological History. Yale University
Press.
Thompson, J.D. (2005). Plant Evolution in the Mediterranean.
Oxford University Press.
25
Code
GEO3085 – SEM 1
Title
GEOGRAPHY OF THE MALTESE ISLANDS – Human
Geography
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
2 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr John A. Schembri, Dr Maria Attard and Ms Therese
Bajada.
Description
This study-unit follows in depth the geography of the
Maltese Islands from the human aspects. There will be
reference to topics such as population, settlement, industry,
trade and communications.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
Reading List
Students will acquire knowledge of the geography of Malta
and its applicability in the various fields.
• Attard, M. and Hall, D. 2003. ‘Public transport
modernisation and adjustment to EU accession
requirements: the case of Malta's buses’, Journal of
Transport Geography, 11, 13-24.
• Attard, M. and Schembri, J.A. 1999. ‘The role of
transport in urban environments’, Proceedings for the
International Seminar on Atmospheric Pollution, Mgarr,
Gozo, University of Malta Press.
• Schembri, J.A. 2000. ‘The changing geography of
population and settlement in the Maltese Islands’, in
Vella, C. (Ed.) The Maltese Islands on the Move. A
Mosaic of Contributions Marking Malta’s Entry into the
21st Century. NSO, Malta.
26
Code
GEO3086 – SEM 2
Title
GEOGRAPHY OF THE MALTESE ISLANDS – Physical
Geography
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
2 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Ms Ritienne Gauci and Mr Avertano Role
Description
This study-unit deals with the physical geography of the
Maltese Islands, taking into consideration the tectonic
structure, geological formations, structural geology,
hydrogeology and geomorphology. Reference is also made
to the climate, soils and vegetation of the Maltese Islands,
which are typical of a Mediterranean environment.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
This course enables students to acquire detailed information
on the local natural environment and associated processes.
Reading List
•
Hughes-Clarke, M., Pedley, M. and Galea, P.,
(2002) Limestone isles in a crystal sea: the geology of the
Maltese Islands. Peg, Malta.
•
Soldati, M., Buhagiar, S., Coratza, P., Pasuto, A &
Schembri, J.A. (2008) Proceedings of the Italo-Maltese
Workshop on Integration of the Geomorphological
environment and cultural Heritage for tourism promotion
and hazard prevention – Malta, 24-27 April 2007. Geogr.
Fis. Dinam. Quat, 31 (2).
•
Zammit-Maempel, G. (1977) An outline of Maltese
Geology, Malta, The author.
27
Code
GEO3088
Title
SYNOPTIC STUDY UNIT I (B.A. Hons)
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
6 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 3 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr. John A. Schembri, Dr. Maria Attard, Mr Avertano Role,
Dr Saviour Scerri, Ms Therese Bajada and Ms Ritienne Gauci
Description
This study-unit is designed to prepare final year
undergraduate students for the final examinations related to
their B.A.(Hons) Geography degree.
Learning Outcomes and Students are expected to have gained the necessary
Objectives
competence in order to answer the synoptic exam questions in
a multi-disciplinary manner.
Reading List
•
•
•
•
•
Burns, T. and Sinfield, S. 2008. Essential Study Skills:
The Complete Guide to Success at University, 2nd
edition, Sage Publications, London.
Cottrell, S. 2006. The Exam Skills Handbook, Palgrave
Macmillan, New York.
Cottrell, S. 2008. The Study Skills Handbook, 3rd
revised edition, Palgrave Macmillan, New York.
Northedge, A. 2005. The Good Study Guide, 2nd
revised edition, Open University Worldwide, Milton
Keynes.
Tracy, E. 2006. The Student's Guide to Exam Success,
2nd edition, Open University Press, Milton Keynes.
28
Code
GEO3089
Title
SYNOPTIC STUDY UNIT II (B.A. Hons)
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
6 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 3 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr. John A. Schembri, Dr. Maria Attard, Mr Avertano Role,
Dr Saviour Scerri Ms Therese Bajada and Ms Ritienne Gauci
Description
This study-unit is designed to prepare final year
undergraduate students for the final examinations related to
their B.A.(Hons) Geography degree .
Learning Outcomes and Students are expected to have gained the necessary
Objectives
competence in order to answer the synoptic exam questions in
a multi-disciplinary manner.
Reading List
• Burns, T. and Sinfield, S. 2008. Essential Study Skills:
The Complete Guide to Success at University, 2nd
edition, Sage Publications, London.
• Cottrell, S. 2006. The Exam Skills Handbook, Palgrave
Macmillan, New York.
• Cottrell, S. 2008. The Study Skills Handbook, 3rd
revised edition, Palgrave Macmillan, New York.
• Northedge, A. 2005. The Good Study Guide, 2nd
revised edition, Open University Worldwide, Milton
Keynes.
• Tracy, E. 2006. The Student's Guide to Exam Success,
2nd edition, Open University Press, Milton Keynes.
29
Code
GEO3090
Title
SYNOPTIC STUDY UNIT I (B.A., B.Comm, B. Comm
(Hons.)
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
6 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 3 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr. John A. Schembri, Dr. Maria Attard, Mr Avertano Role,
Dr Saviour Scerri Ms Therese Bajada and Ms Ritienne Gauci
Description
This study-unit is designed to prepare final year
undergraduate students for the final examinations related to
their B.A., B.Comm. and B.Comm. (Hons) degrees.
Learning Outcomes and Students are expected to have gained the necessary
Objectives
competence in order to answer the synoptic exam questions in
a multi-disciplinary manner.
Reading List
•
•
•
•
•
Burns, T. and Sinfield, S. 2008. Essential Study Skills:
The Complete Guide to Success at University, 2nd
edition, Sage Publications, London.
Cottrell, S. 2006. The Exam Skills Handbook, Palgrave
Macmillan, New York.
Cottrell, S. 2008. The Study Skills Handbook, 3rd
revised edition, Palgrave Macmillan, New York.
Northedge, A. 2005. The Good Study Guide, 2nd
revised edition, Open University Worldwide, Milton
Keynes.
Tracy, E. 2006. The Student's Guide to Exam Success,
2nd edition, Open University Press, Milton Keynes.
30
Code
GEO3091
Title
SYNOPTIC STUDY UNIT II (B.A., B.Comm, B. Comm
(Hons.)
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
6 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 100%
Duration: 3 hours
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr. John A. Schembri, Dr. Maria Attard, Mr Avertano Role,
Dr Saviour Scerri Ms Therese Bajada and Ms Ritienne Gauci
Description
This study-unit is designed to prepare final year
undergraduate students for the final examinations related to
their B.A., B.Comm. and B.Comm. (Hons) degrees.
Learning Outcomes and Students are expected to have gained the necessary
Objectives
competence in order to answer the synoptic exam questions in
a multi-disciplinary manner.
Reading List
•
•
•
•
•
Burns, T. and Sinfield, S. 2008. Essential Study Skills:
The Complete Guide to Success at University, 2nd
edition, Sage Publications, London.
Cottrell, S. 2006. The Exam Skills Handbook, Palgrave
Macmillan, New York.
Cottrell, S. 2008. The Study Skills Handbook, 3rd
revised edition, Palgrave Macmillan, New York.
Northedge, A. 2005. The Good Study Guide, 2nd
revised edition, Open University Worldwide, Milton
Keynes.
Tracy, E. 2006. The Student's Guide to Exam Success,
2nd edition, Open University Press, Milton Keynes.
31
Code
GEO3095 – SEM 1
Title
PEDOLOGY
Type
Lectures and Fieldwork
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Exam 50%; Fieldwork 50%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Ms Sonya Sammut
Description
This course deals with the study of soils as a scientific
discipline, taking into consideration the composition and
properties of soils, factors and processes of soil formation
and soil classifications. Reference is made to the soils
found in the Mediterranean Region and the Maltese Islands.
Learning Outcomes and By the end of the course, students are expected to
Objectives
demonstrate good knowledge of this earth science subject
adopting a multi-disciplinary approach.
Reading List
• Ashman, M.R. and Puri, G. 2002. Essential Soil Science,
Blackwell Science, Oxford.
• Eash, N., Green, C.J., Ravzi, A., Bennett, W.F. and Bratz,
M.C. 2008. Soil Science Simplified, 5th edition, WileyBlackwell, Chichester.
• Schaetzl, R.J. and Anderson, S. 2005. Soils: Genesis and
Geomorphology,
Cambridge
University
Press,
Cambridge.
• White, R.E. 2005. Principles and Practice of Soil
Science: The Soil as a Natural Resource, 4th edition,
Blackwell, Oxford.
32
Code
GEO3098 – SEM 1
Title
HYDROLOGY
Type
Lectures
ECTS credits
4 credits
Pre-requisite study-unit
None
Method of assessment
Examination 50%, Assignment 50%
Duration: 1 hour
Result
Percentage mark & grade
Attendance
Obligatory
Lecturer
Dr Saviour Scerri
Description
This study-unit will give a review of the hydrological
system in its physical, chemical and management
implications. The course deals first with an evaluation of
the global hydrological processes, then discusses the issues
relating to the Mediterranean region and finally gives an
overview of the situation in the Maltese Islands.
Learning Outcomes and
Objectives
At the end of this specialist study unit, students will be able
to apply skills in the research on hydrology and the natural
environment.
Reading List
• Davis, T. 2007 Fundamentals of Hydrology Routledge
• Skinner, B,J, et al 2003 The Dynamic Earth: An
Introduction to Physical Geography Wiley
• Downing, R.A. 1998 Groundwater: Our Hidden Asset.
British Geological Survey
• Pacione, M. 1999 Applied geography: principles and
practice. Routledge, London.
33