Population growth cycles for developing regions: Suggestions for classroom use
Richard Ulack · Journal of Geography · 1978
The attempt is made to suggest formal (and possibly oversimplified) alternatives to the Western-based demographic transmition model that may be used for classroom instruction. A method for determining the type of transition world regions will probably complete is presented along with a review of the alternative transition models (growth cycles). Due to the fact that present population growth cycles in the developing regions will progress through a transition similar to that of the developed regions a lengthy examination of the Western-oriented transition model may be of little use in the classroom. Possibly discussion should begin with the premise that population growth cycles A (a birthrate that is essentially stationary and the cycle ending when the death rate increases to the level of the birthrate) and B (the birthrate declines somewhat and the death rate increases but not to the extent of that in cycle A) are the most likely ways in which population growth will end in developing regions and that cycle C (optimistic and similar to the modern cycle but the death rate declines more rapidly than that actually experienced in the developed regions) may be appropriate only if dramatic and rapid changes are made within these regions. If the pessimistic view of cycles A and B is to be averted massive aid (to influence technological revolutions) from the developed to the developing regions must be forthcoming.