ELEMENTS of GEOGRAPHY

Geography is quite literally “Earth description.” So, how do Geographers go about describing the Earth? The two principal components of such descriptions are called Physical Processes and Human Processes. To inform the residents of Leisure World, the Center for Lifelong Learning has scheduled Tom Conger to instruct a class starting Wednesdays at 1 PM, April 24 and continuing until May 22, 2024 in Clubhouse 1.  The maximum limit for the class is 40 students.  Cost is $15.00.

Residents interested in attending the class should register with Lifestyle at either Clubhouse 1 (301-598-1300) or Clubhouse 2 or (301-598-1320). Registration begins on the Tuesday following the Friday publication in the Leisure World newspaper.

Physical Processes deal with such matters as plate tectonics and their actions, such as earthquakes, volcanoes, the expansion (or contraction) of continental landmasses, the building up (and wearing down) of mountains, erosion that sculpts the landscape, glaciation, and other factors. Weather and Climate are important elements of Physical Processes to analyze as well. How do hurricanes, tornadoes, severe cyclonic storms, climate change and global warming impact the natural environment?

Regarding Human Processes, how do people use the Earth? The building of settlements, agriculture, commerce, transportation, migration, and other factors must be considered. Also of importance to Geographers are the multi-faceted cultures that form rich human tapestry of our Plant. Applied Geography – urban, community and regional planning can all benefit from a knowledge of the Earth. What are the capabilities and limitations of the land? Where is it suitable (or not suitable) for development to occur? How can we understand and make better us of our knowledge of seismic activity, flooding, global warming and sea level rise? This course will examine how good planning today can contribute to a better Planet for tomorrow.

Tom Conger holds Masters degrees in both Geography and Community Planning. He has taught Geography at the middle, high school and university level. Conger's interest in geography can be traced back to his father, who was also fascinated by the topic.  Conger received a Bachelor of Science in Geography from the University of Georgia and a Master of Arts in the subject from the University of Cincinnati.  While at Cincinnati, Conger also received a Masters degree in Community Planning.  He worked as a community planner for 12 years and then ran a small life insurance company for 20 years.  Subsequently, while living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Conger taught Geography in middle and high school as well as at Northern Arizona University.   Conger and his wife Lois Kutun have been Leisure World residents since 2011.