FOOD AND DEVELOPMENT (UNIVERSITY OF TURKU)

Course: Food and Development
Credits: 5 ECTS
Time: Period IV (12.3.2012 – 25.5.2012)
Coordinating University: University of Turku
Coordinator: Toni Haapanen, Department of Geography and Geology
Teaching language: English
Registration Deadline: 5.3.2012

Course content:
The course examines food production, distribution and consumption from the perspectives of development, sustainability and global change. The concept of food system is introduced for approaching and analysing food commodity chains as entities that are embedded in ecological, political, economical and cultural environments. Problematics related to food security are discussed in regard to different geographical scales and in the light of case studies. The course will also briefly introduce different forms of alternative food systems and their current significance for the global South.

Learning methods:
• Attending the virtual lectures (10 x 60 min)
• Reading the texts related to the lectures
• Participating in group discussions on the themes of the lectures and the texts
• Writing a learning diary based on lectures, texts and discussions

Objectives:
The student will
• broaden and deepen understanding of linkages between food and sustainable global development
• become acquainted with research conducted on food systems and food security in developing countries
• actively participate in discussions where food and development are reflected critically from various viewpoints.

Study material: Literature will be announced in the beginning of the course.
Assessment: Grade 0-5. The final mark will be based on participation in the group discussions and the learning diary.

Additional information: toni.haapanen(at)utu.fi