Recommended Resources

One of my former students who is now teaching geography asked me to recommend a couple of resources I use for teaching geography - particularly the "Canadian and World Issues" course.

I would highly recommend the the following as my current 'Top Three."

Stratfor provides a detailed and insightful analysis of world affairs, and tends to be ahead of conventional media sources. The information is relatively bias and agenda free.  For geographers, it is one of the few sources that actually makes specific reference to location, space and place in explaining current geopolitical events. Stratfor covers a broad range of topics - from economics, to politics, to human rights - that fit beautifully with any course in World Issues. A subscription allows not only access to the full-range of products on their website, but also entitles the user to customizable e-mail updates. I find the "sit-rep" e-mails particularly useful as they provide "real time" updates on breaking news.

The Economist specializes in information on international business and world affairs. Headquartered in London, UK, with offices around the world, the Economist provides a much more "European" take on issues - a refreshing alternative to many of the traditional sources that tend to be more "American-centric." I subscribe to the print version, but web access comes with the subscription. The web content is very user friendly and provides additional information that helps to flesh out many of the issues explored in this weekly publication. While some may be deterred by the cost - $165.00 per year - it is well worth the investment. Division of the magazine into sections by geographic region allows you to get to the areas of specific interest quickly, and the articles themselves are well-written and provide detailed analysis of the issues. The one drawback for some is the heavy emphasis on economics/business stories.

Still one of the best sources for everything Canadian! Good value for the cost, and a must if you are teaching Canadian geography or social sciences. The articles are well-written and the photographs stunning. Reading level is appropriate for a wide range of ages.  If I have one criticism, it is that the magazine has drifted from its geographic mandate, and has of late been far too historical in its focus.