Human Geography Overview

Study Notes

Human Geography: A Focus on People and Places

Human geography is a subdiscipline of geography that examines the ways in which people interact with their environment and how these interactions shape the world around us. It encompasses a diverse range of topics from cultural geography to urban planning, environmental management, and political economy.

Research and Careers in Human Geography

Research assistants in human geography often use a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze data and address pressing questions about human behavior and spatial relationships. Common skills include geographic information systems (GIS), data analysis, field methods, and geospatial technologies.

Researchers in this field may collaborate across various industries, such as urban planning, environmental protection, and public health, to understand and address complex issues like food insecurity, climate change, and social justice.

Education and Training

Human geography requires a solid foundation in geographic concepts, including human geography, regional geography, research methods, and quantitative methods. Recommended college courses for human geography include human geography, cultural geography, physical geography, environmental management, and geographic information systems.

Elevating Human Geography

To raise public awareness and understanding of human geography, scholars participate in initiatives like the American Association of Geographers' (AAG) Elevate the Discipline program, which supports public scholarship and engages with community-oriented, justice-based work on climate change and other pressing issues.

The Role of Human Geography in Decision-Making

Human geography provides valuable insights to inform decision-making at local, regional, and global levels. For example, researchers may use participatory GIS to gather stories of pesticide exposure in migrant communities and publish their findings to inform decision-makers of opportunities for real change.

In summary, human geography is a vital subdiscipline that bridges the social and spatial sciences, offering valuable insights into the complex relationships between people and their environments. As a dynamic and interdisciplinary field, it provides ample opportunities for research, education, and career growth.