Aims and Fit of Module

The aim of this module is to explain the different planning theories, their development and their relationship to planning practice. Three main objectives are identified:

1) to provide a theoretical grounding on the nature and purposes of planning activities and planning practice;

2) to relate theories about planning to more general social theories of state, society and

professional ethics;

3) to provide a conceptual framework for students to formulate their own professional value-systems

and viewpoints.

Learning outcomes

Students who complete the course successfully will:

A. appreciate different theoretical backgrounds to planning, both historical and contemporary,

B. Understand the diversity of ideologies, values and cultures that form different theories in and of planning,

C. Understand the reasons why planning practitioners operate in the way they do

D. Be familiar with theoretical methods of problem resolution, and understand the limitations of applying natural science methods to social science problems

Method of teaching and learning

The delivery of this module is largely through lectures and student presentations. Students are expected to do several assigned homework readings, one oral presentation and one essay, and they are expected to participate actively in classes and especially discussions.