This course is an invitation to examine urban and regional planning practices and the underlying thoughts of what planning is or should be based on a range of international planning examples.The combined lecture series is based on the premise that international urban and regional planning is an inherently political activity, which requires not only a critical and reflexive attitude to mainstream planning theory and history, but also to the current challenges of contemporary planning, urbanism and theories. Students are encouraged to critically question their assumptions regarding regional, urban and social contexts and their ideas regarding the role of planning and planners in shaping these. The lecture includes case studies and theoretical perspectives from the global North and South and aims to set up a productive dialogue between both – theory and practice.
Learning outcomes:
- Improve students’ knowledge on the scope of urban and regional planning in a context of international urbanism and regional development (appreciating different approaches to planning and their sub-fields)
- Advance students’ reflexivity regarding the role of planners and planning in shaping the environment
- Make students aware of the implications of different planning approaches in reviewing case studies
- Encourage critical thinking regarding the role of planners and planning by highlighting possibilities for contributing to democratization, equality and improved quality of life in cities of the global North and South based on suitable case studies.
Assessment:
A combined written exam by the end of the winter term. Moreover, throughout the lectures, students are assessed on the basis of their presentations and hand-ins. Regular attendance is mandatory.
