This Degree Readiness module aims to provide students a foundational understanding of the principles, processes, and practices of urban planning and design. By providing a broad overview on our existing human habitat and its transformation, it introduces the interrelationship between natural and the built environment, and the social, economic, environmental, and political/cultural factors that co-shape our common future. It also provides students with the opportunity to envision the future human habitat using AI tools. It serves as a fundamental module to the programme BA Urban Planning and Design.
A Describe fundamental issues and challenges that have jointly shaped the transformation of human habitat B Explain the core principles of urban planning and design, and evaluate how sustainability principles are applied to planning practice C Apply design thinking in practice D Use AI tools to explore/analyse the urban/rural problems
The module is taught in weekly sessions articulated in a lecture and a seminar. The former provides the theoretical framework, while the latter elicits research-led project-based learning through discussions, case studies and group activities. Seminars will also support students in the development of their coursework. It is important to note that innovative teaching method (e.g., city walk) will be incorporated into this module, which means some lectures/tutorials might not be delivered in a classroom but in the urban/rural fields.