TAD-10806 Technology, Development and Natural Resources

Course

Credits 6.00

Teaching methodContact hours
Lectures16
Literature study
Problem-based learning15
Tutorial8
Course coordinator(s)dr. ir. H Maat
Lecturer(s)dr. ir. H Maat
dr. ir. GM Verschoor
ir. JH Postema
dr. ir. SR Vellema
dr. ir. JA Bolding
dr. ir. CA Kessler
Examiner(s)dr. ir. H Maat
dr. ir. GM Verschoor

Language of instruction:

Dutch

Contents:

Development and social change, either local or on a global scale, are highly dependent on natural resources. Access to and use of those resources is mediated by technology. The central focus of this course are interactions between society, technology and natural resources. Through a variety of examples from different contexts, the practical challenges, problems and solutions of these interactions are exposed. Parallel to that, the understanding of these interactions by a variety of concepts, theories and approaches in the social sciences are presented. The connection between the theoretical approaches, concepts and practical cases is exemplified through instruction as well as actively dealt with in student-driven activities.

Learning outcomes:

After completion of the course a student is expected to be able:
- to explain how human activity, technology and natural resources are mutually dependent;
- to describe the social and technical complexity of projects and interventions that focus on the use, management, and access to natural resources;
- to distinguish different theoretical approaches in the social sciences that conceptualize the interaction between society, technology and natural resources;
- to apply concepts and approaches to themes and issues related to natural resources;
- to write an essay in a clear and concise style;
- using correct spelling and referencing conventions;
- that delves into at least one of the core issues of the course. The essay should contain an individual learning aim, an introduction that adequately frames the essay, and should synthesize the literature in a reflexive and coherent manner.

Activities:

The course consists of lectures, literature study, tutorials, group discussions and paper writing. The course includes Instructions on paper writing skills.

Examination:

Examination is based on a written exam and individual paper.

Literature:

The course will make use of articles and documents that are made available electronically.

ProgrammePhaseSpecializationPeriod
Compulsory for: BINInternational Development StudiesBSc5MO
BILInternational Land and Water ManagementBSc5MO