Reflection of the Class

a. What did you learn in this class that you believe will be most directly applicable to understanding how the world works?

I think the most applicable is path dependence. We defined path dependence as the decisions made in the past strongly influence the decisions and strategic planning made/done in the present. This is seen in things like the QWERTY keyboard. The QWERTY keyboard is by no means the best set up for a keyboard, but in the past it was developed in order to reduce the possibility for jams in a type writer. Ever since then, the QWERTY keyboard has been used in computers, laptops, and cellphones. The majority of the population knows how to use the QWERTY keyboard, and attempting to switch to a different layout of the keys would take too much time and money to change. Therefore, we don't change it.

b. What topics are you interested in learning more about, after this class ends?

I am very interested in learning more about Central Place Theory. It is very intriguing to try to explain the size and location of human settlements. The models that attempt to explain how these human settlements are laid out are also interesting. We make simplifying models to try to convince ourselves and others that this explains how land is used in urban spaces, but then we find out that modern settlements have surpassed that model. Then we construct a new one, but then modern settlements are so complicated that they are very hard to model in a simple diagram or figure.

c. What do you think will be the most challenging for you next year, whether you're studying abroad, studying away, or studying at K?

I will be studying abroad in Hungary, if you have not seen any of my other blog posts. I think the most challenging part will be to just go with the flow. I really like planning things out before I do them. I really like being efficient with my time. I am so conscious of time, that I actually have my alarm set in the morning at a time like 8:57, because I know it takes me about 3 minutes to actually wake up and start moving, and I know how long it takes for me to get ready in the morning. So, being able to take a step back from that and forget that time is a factor, will be my toughest challenge. It will be good for me though!