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Rasmus Gjedssø Bertelsen and Brenda Parlee

Arctic communities have diverse histories and roles in local, regional and global economies. However, the scope and scale of globalization has increased so quickly that vulnerable Arctic communities are facing new kinds of challenges to their survival. In this 3-week MOOC, a unique collaboration between the University of Alberta and UiT The Arctic University of Norway, you will investigate the challenges faced by Indigenous, North American, Russian and Nordic Arctic communities in a modern world. So join us as we venture above the 60th parallel North, and explore how these fascinating communities adjust to change while maintaining their ways of life, socio-economic histories, and cultural traditions.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Globalization and Sustainable Arctic Economies
Welcome to the first step of your journey into the Arctic! In this module, we will introduce you to a diverse array of Arctic communities across the circumpolar north. You'll gain a basic understanding of the geography, culture and history of the Indigenous, North American, Russian, and Nordic Arctic, along with a few concepts and theories along the way. This foundational module will help us understand the recent changes, specific to and shared by, each of these regions, which have caused so much disruption across the Arctic.
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Module 2: Local and Regional Economies Connected with the Outside World
Welcome back! Now that you have a basic understanding of each region, in this module we will do a deep dive into the historical and contemporary economies of each of the 4 Arctics. Throughout the module, you'll encounter some key concepts that will help you understand how northern communities have been engaged in the global economy and what the future might hold. By the time you finish the final video of Module 2, you'll be more than halfway through this condensed course!
Module 3: History of Globalization in the Arctic
You've made it to the last full module of the course- congratulations! Here, we will focus on the rise of globalization and the sweeping changes it has brought to Arctic communities. We’ll also look at the problem of how to manage the tensions that arise between local and global communities. Finally, we will examine the different modes of Arctic governance and examine some of the strategies and tools northern communities are using to secure the sustainability of Arctic communities and ecosystems.
Module 4: Final Thoughts
In this final, short summary module, we will end our thought experiment and examine some of the questions that it has left us with, looking to the uncertain future facing Arctic communities, economies and cultures. There is no single answer to solve every problem and challenge that we've encountered, but by taking this course, and informing yourself of these issues, you are already contributing to a better future for these areas of the world.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides a comprehensive study of Arctic history, culture, and economies
Investigates the specific challenges faced by Arctic communities
Offers insights into how Arctic communities adapt to change
Taught by experts from two universities specializing in Arctic studies
Provides a multi-modal learning experience with videos, readings, and discussions
Suitable for both general audiences and those with an interest in Arctic studies

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Reviews summary

Well received arctic economy course

Learners say that this well received Arctic Economy course is informative and engaging. Students mention that the course is especially helpful for those interested in learning more about Arctic regions. This course provides an overview of Arctic economies and offers insights into issues such as globalization and sustainability. The course has easy-to-understand presentations and a clear course outline. Overall, learners say that this well designed course is a great resource for those interested in the Arctic.
Instructors deliver clear and understandable presentations.
"The instructors both made clear and easily understood presentations."
"The speakers were very good"
The majority of reviews are very positive.
"Amazing"
"Very Informative"
"Excellent"
"Very informative and thought provoking course"
The course content is engaging and informative.
"Interesting to learn about the arctic."
"I gained new information and knowledge about all the Arctic regions."
"Extremely interesting and substantive."
A few learners mention that some quiz questions have incorrect answers.
"A few quiz questions had the wrong answer as "correct""
"some of the quizzes had iffy answers"
Some learners mention that the course information may be outdated.
"Important information ... but the course was written in 2016, so some of the data and perspectives might be outdated."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Arctic Economy with these activities:
Review Economic Geography
Strengthen foundational understanding of economic geography to enhance comprehension of Arctic economies.
Show steps
  • Review principles of economic geography
  • Explore case studies related to Arctic economies
Review basic geographic principles
Arctic studies rely on understanding basic geographic principles. Reviewing the fundamentals will prepare you for success in this course.
Browse courses on Geography
Show steps
  • Revisit the concept of latitude and longitude
  • Review the different types of maps and their uses
  • Practice identifying different geographical features on a map
Review global economy news articles
Get up to date on the current state of the global economy which will be essential for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing Arctic communities.
Browse courses on Globalization
Show steps
  • Identify reputable sources for economic news
  • Read and summarize at least three articles on current global economic trends
Eight other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 11 activities
Review Globalization Concepts
Reinforce prior knowledge of globalization and its impact on economies.
Browse courses on Globalization
Show steps
  • Read introductory materials on globalization
  • Summarize key concepts in your own words
Join a study group to discuss and compare notes on course materials
Strengthen your understanding of key concepts and identify areas where you need further clarification by collaborating with peers.
Show steps
  • Find a study group or create one with classmates
  • Meet regularly to discuss course materials and quiz each other
Engage in Arctic Community Discussions
Connect with others interested in Arctic issues and share perspectives.
Show steps
  • Join online forums or discussion groups dedicated to Arctic topics
  • Participate in discussions and share insights
  • Organize or attend local events related to Arctic research or policy
Practice applying economic concepts to Arctic case studies
Develop and strengthen your understanding of how economic principles affect Arctic communities by completing exercises.
Browse courses on Economic Development
Show steps
  • Select a case study and define the economic issue being examined
  • Apply the appropriate economic concepts to analyze the issue
  • Formulate recommendations for addressing the issue
Explore the Arctic through Literature
Gain a deeper understanding of Arctic communities and their challenges through a literary lens.
View Arctic Dreams on Amazon
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  • Read a selected Arctic-related book
  • Reflect on the portrayal of Arctic communities
  • Discuss key themes and ideas with peers
Compile Arctic-related Resources
Gather and organize a collection of relevant resources for further exploration of Arctic topics.
Show steps
  • Search for and identify Arctic-related articles, videos, and websites
  • Categorize and organize the resources
  • Create a shared online platform for sharing the compilation
Create a presentation on the economic challenges facing a specific Arctic community
Deepen your understanding of the economic disparities affecting Arctic communities by focusing on a unique region and developing a multimedia presentation to share it.
Browse courses on Economic Development
Show steps
  • Research different Arctic communities and select one to focus on
  • Identify the key economic challenges facing the community
  • Gather data and conduct analysis to support your findings
  • Develop a visually engaging presentation that clearly communicates your findings
Analyze Arctic Economic Data
Develop analytical skills by working with real-world Arctic economic data.
Browse courses on Economic Analysis
Show steps
  • Obtain Arctic economic data from credible sources
  • Use statistical tools to analyze trends and patterns
  • Interpret the results and draw meaningful conclusions

Career center

Learners who complete Arctic Economy will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Social Worker
Social workers help people in need. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the social challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help social workers develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the economic challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help economists develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Teacher
Teachers educate students. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the educational challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help teachers develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Urban Planner
Urban planners plan and design cities and towns. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the planning challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help urban planners develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental scientists study the environment and its components, and work to protect the environment and human health. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help environmental scientists develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Writer
Writers write books, articles, and other works of literature. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help writers develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Lawyer
Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the legal challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help lawyers develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Historian
Historians study the past and its impact on the present. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the historical challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help historians develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Journalist
Journalists write and report on news stories. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help journalists develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
International Relations Specialist
International relations specialists study the relationships between countries. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the international relations challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help international relations specialists develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Public Policy Analyst
Public policy analysts study and evaluate public policies. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the public policy challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help public policy analysts develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Sociologist
Sociologists study society and social behavior. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the social challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help sociologists develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Political Scientist
Political scientists study politics and government. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the political challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help political scientists develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study human cultures and societies. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the social, economic, and cultural challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help anthropologists develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.
Geographer
Geographers study the Earth's surface and its features. This course would be a good fit for someone in this field, as it would provide them with a deeper understanding of the geographical challenges faced by Arctic communities. The course would also help geographers develop a better understanding of the history of globalization in the Arctic, which is important for understanding the current state of affairs in the region.

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Arctic Economy .
Treats Arctic history not as a peripheral subject, but as central to global history, and narrates events in a way that highlights the significance of the region.
Provides a comprehensive history of the Arctic, from its geological formation to the present day. It valuable resource for understanding the historical context of the economic challenges facing Arctic communities.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the governance challenges facing the Arctic. It valuable resource for understanding the legal and political frameworks that govern Arctic development.
Provides a North American perspective on the Arctic, and discusses the challenges and opportunities that this region presents for the United States and Canada.

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