Preface
World Regional Geography v3.0 takes a regional approach to globalization and world geography. The textbook was designed to provide accurate and current information regarding world regional geography in an easy-to-read format. Fundamental geographic concepts and regions are presented in concise chapters that provide a foundational framework for understanding development patterns around the world. Essential topics include location, the environment, and global economic dynamics. Important theories, concepts, and principles are utilized throughout the textbook for each region.
This book focuses on the primary issues that have created our cultural and societal structures within a framework for global understanding. The text outlines a pattern of development from the imprint of European colonialism on culture to the impact that giant retail corporations like Walmart have on consumerism. Basic spatial concepts will be illustrated throughout the text to provide continuity of ideas and application of concepts to every region of the world.
World Regional Geography is succinct, concise, and to the point. The basic concepts are covered with real-world examples. The text is brief enough to provide flexibility for additional specialized information from outside sources to be added to the classroom discussion as the professor desires. Each concise chapter focuses on one subject or region. This format is ideal for the purpose of course management and flexibility. This book was designed for students to experience and study as much of the world as possible within a limited amount of time.
This book provides students with a working knowledge of world geography. Special sections on relevant topics are distributed throughout the book. Learning objectives are presented before each section. Terms and key takeaways are included at the end of each lesson to support retention and stimulate critical thinking.
Supplements
World Regional Geography v3.0 is accompanied by a robust supplements program that augments and enriches both the teaching and student learning experiences. The author reviewed all of the supplements to ensure a full alignment with the book’s narrative. Faculty should contact their FlatWorld sales representative or FlatWorld support at support@flatworld.com for more information or to obtain access to the supplements upon adoption.
Instructor’s Manual
The instructor’s manual (IM) includes Learning Objectives and an outline for each chapter. The IM also features possible responses to discussion and study questions from the chapter which encourage students to more deeply engage with course material.
PowerPoint Slides
PowerPoint Slides organized by chapter include a concise and thorough outline, a list of Learning Objectives, and figures and tables contained in the text. These slides work well for both face-to-face and online learning environments, enliven lectures, and stimulate class discussions. Adopters can use the slides as composed to support lectures or customize and build upon them to suit their particular teaching goals.
Test Item File
The Test Item File (TIF) includes more than one hundred questions per chapter in multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, true/false, short answer, and essay-question formats. All answers are provided, including possible responses to the essay questions. The items have been written specifically to reinforce the major topics covered in each chapter and to align with FlatWorld Homework and in-text quiz items. The Test Item File questions are also available in pre-formatted form for easy export into popular learning management systems such as Canvas or Blackboard.
Test Generator—Powered by Cognero
FlatWorld is pleased to provide a computer-generated test program powered by the leading assessment provider Cognero to assist instructors with selecting, randomizing, formatting, loading online, or printing exams. Please contact your local FlatWorld representative or FlatWorld support (support@flatworld.com) for more information or to request the program.
FlatWorld Homework
FlatWorld Homework is new for this version and provides in an easy-to-use interface. Multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, matching, labeling, and other question types are available for use and are all auto-gradable. Students who utilize the homework questions should see their performance improve on examinations that are given using the Test Item File questions that accompany this book.
Online Quizzes and Flashcards
Autograded Quiz questions and Flashcards for student self-evaluation are organized by chapter and section and embedded in the online version of the book. Students can use the Quizzes and Flashcards to test their comprehension by section as they read and learn, once they have completed a chapter, or for test review.
What’s New in Version 3.0?
The students at my university found it difficult to pay the high prices for textbooks, many that were only in print for a couple of years where the students couldn't sell them back. I wanted to use a textbook that was inexpensive, could be continually updated, and could be used for longer than a couple of years.
The updates in this version 3.0 followed the need to correct, edit, or revise the material in the second edition in order to keep the content current and appropriate, and to ensure the academic value of the text. Specific changes in this version include:
Maps and charts better leverage color as a teaching tool and half the maps were replaced to reflect current trends, contemporary issues, and developments in world affairs
Over 80 hyperlinks to multiple, short videos are included for the first time to enrich the learning experience for students
Data, demographic information, and country statistics have been updated to align with the most recent census at the time of publication
All “Study and Discussion” questions have been revised and updated to reflect current data and information
Revision highlights include:
Chapter 2, Section 5 “Regions of Western Europe” includes coverage of the war in Ukraine by the invading Russian army
Chapter 5, Section 4 “Central America” features a new Special Section covering the Northern Triangle and Immigration
Chapter 7, Section 6 “East Africa” includes updated information on the Tigray region of Ethiopia
Chapter 9, Section 3 “The Peripheral States of South Asia” reflects updated changes in Kashmir to include the Union Territory of Ladakh
Chapter 11, Section 3 “The Mainland Countries” describes the emerging vehicle manufacturing industry as an example of regional development