Aims

1. The course aims to give students the theoretical analytical tools and practical instruments that will enable them to develop an understanding of development, to make sense of its mechanisms, and to consider a definition of future perspectives and orientations of development.
2. The course will be based on concrete situations derived from a multidisciplinary approach, and principally on the current situation of regional imbalances in Europe as well as in Belgium

Content and teaching methods

Content
a) The course aims to teach the spatial and strategic dimensions of a range of development dynamics (the space-time link). It accordingly forms part of an interdisciplinary approach (economics, sociology, political science and history).
b) It will mainly examine the various issues that lie at the root of regional disparities in development in industrialised countries, and in Europe in particular. Some of the teaching will specifically aim to clarify the particular situation in Belgium.
c) The course is structured in several modules on the basis of two key issues:
- an analysis of the determinants of different development in regions (the theories, diagnoses and strategies of actors);
- a definition of the future strategies and directions of development policies adapted to particular situations in the regions in European countries, and especially in Belgium.
d) The course will mainly focus on an examination of actors' strategies and of development policies (e.g. the role of entrepreneurs and the state). A special place will be accorded to EC instruments of regional policy.
Methodology
1. The course is organised in 15 20-hour modules incorporating a programme-grid that involves an exchange with students. The grid will vary according to the students' background and various related subjects. It should be borne in mind that this course has previously been followed by students of political science, economics and geography.
2. A selective bibliography will be given to students, and reading priorities will be set for each module.
3. Statistical materials relating to development in European regions will be given to students to enable them to understand different development variables and to assess their scope.
4. As far as the course assessment is concerned, students will choose between a study and critical reflection on a particular aspect of regional development (10-15 pages) and an evaluation of the subject taught.

Other credits in programs