Social Studies 3201/02

The purpose of this outcome is to introduce students to the concept of quality of life, indicators that may be used to measure quality of life, and how changes in these, over time, can influence the human experience. 

An examination of quality of life will begin with an understanding of the concept itself and an appreciation of the fact that it is relative. By this it is meant that the values of a group of people, or culture, may determine what is considered desirable in terms of quality of life and that these values may vary depending on a variety of factors (e.g., location, identity). Throughout this investigation, students will recognize that economic factors underlie many of the issues associated with quality of life. 

Students will then consider the nature of economic development and its role in determining quality of life. This will be achieved through examination of country grouping by level of development: more economically developed countries (MEDCs) and less economically developed countries (LEDCs). Students will also consider quality of life indicators that are used for the purpose of comparing countries at varying levels of development. This will facilitate a discussion of quality of life by providing context for student investigation of issues. 

Finally, students will examine ways in which ideas and innovations can influence quality of life. The focus here will be on historical developments that have improved or degraded quality of life with the purpose of laying a foundation for the examination of present day and future issues. This will create linkages between Social Studies 2201 and 3201 that bridge concepts students have studied previously with those that will be explored throughout this course.