Arctic Economy

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/arctic-economy

Introduction

### Course Review: Arctic Economy on Coursera If you are fascinated by the complexities of global interconnectedness and its implications for remote communities, the **Arctic Economy** course offered on **Coursera** deserves your attention. In collaboration with the **University of Alberta** and **UiT The Arctic University of Norway**, this engaging 3-week MOOC provides valuable insights into the diverse Arctic communities grappling with the current realities of globalization. #### Overview The Arctic is often viewed through a narrow lens, but this course expands that perspective to reveal the rich histories, cultures, and economies that shape Indigenous, North American, Russian, and Nordic Arctic communities. Students will explore the unique challenges these regions face in today's rapidly changing environment, making this course especially pertinent given the effects of climate change, economic pressures, and cultural shifts. #### Module Breakdown 1. **Module 1: Globalization and Sustainable Arctic Economies** The course kicks off with a solid foundation, introducing the geography, culture, and history of the Arctic. Students will gain an understanding of fundamental concepts related to globalization, which have significantly affected these communities. It's a brilliant way to start your journey, as it sets the stage for the deeper explorations to follow. 2. **Module 2: Local and Regional Economies Connected with the Outside World** Diving deeper, this module examines the economies of the diverse Arctic regions in greater depth. Here, you’ll discover how these communities have historically engaged with global economic systems and the influences that shape their contemporary realities. This module is particularly enlightening for those interested in economic anthropology and sociology. 3. **Module 3: History of Globalization in the Arctic** As you progress, the course takes a critical look at the implications of globalization, highlighting management tensions between local and global interests. By exploring governance models and the strategies employed by Arctic communities, you will develop a nuanced understanding of their efforts to ensure sustainability in the face of international pressures. 4. **Module 4: Final Thoughts** The conclusion of the course encourages you to reflect on the complexities encountered and consider the future of Arctic economies and cultures. This module serves as a potent reminder that understanding these challenges is just the beginning; your knowledge can contribute to more informed discussions and solutions. #### Recommendation I highly recommend the **Arctic Economy** course for anyone interested in international relations, environmental studies, Indigenous rights, or economic systems. It's well-structured and offers a wealth of knowledge presented in an accessible format, making it suitable for both beginners and those with prior knowledge of the subject. **Pros**: - Expert insights from reputable institutions - Engaging multimedia content - Active learning through video lectures and interactive materials **Cons**: - Course duration may feel brief for some, especially those wishing to explore more deeply By participating in this course, you not only gain an educational experience but also become part of a larger conversation about the future of the Arctic and its communities. In conclusion, the **Arctic Economy** course is essential for anyone who is keen to understand the intricate web of factors affecting one of the world's most vulnerable regions in the era of globalization. Enroll today and start your journey into the heart of the Arctic!

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.

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!

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.

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.