Introduction to the Arctic

Timetable

The exact timetable and room will be agreed with all signed participants at the end of September 2026

Module aim (aims)

The aim of the course is to provide a broad understanding of the Arctic's natural environment, addressing key issues related to human activity and presence in this part of the world. The course also addresses the transformations occurring in the Arctic as a result of climate change and increasing human impact.

Pre-requisites in terms of knowledge, skills and social competences (where relevant)

Basic geographical knowledge

Syllabus

Arctic delimitation and regionalization

Arctic geoecosystems and environmental conditions

History of Arctic exploration

People in the Arctic

Arctic fauna

Arctic flora

Political and economic significance of the Arctic

Scientific research in the Arctic

Tourism in the Arctic

Impact of climate change and anthropogenic pressure on the Arctic environment

Polish presence in the Arctic

Local and international organizations operating in the Arctic

Logistics and organization of expeditions in the Arctic

The future and possible scenarios for changes in the Arctic

Reading list

French H.M., The Periglacial Environment. Willey Blackwell, 2017

Zwoliński Z., Kostrzewski A., Pulina M. (Eds.), Dawne i współczesne geoekosystemy Spitsbergenu : polskie badania geomorfologiczne = Ancient and modern geoecosystems of Spitsbergen: Polish geomorphological research. Poznań, Bogucki Wydawnictwo Naukowe, 2013