Foundations of Urban Studies: Researching and Comparing Cities

Are you curious about how cities function, evolve, and differ across the globe? Do you want to understand the complexities of urban life and development? This course provides a foundational understanding of urban studies, equipping you with the methods to systematically research, compare, and critically analyze diverse urban environments. What you'll learn: * Understand core concepts and theories in urban studies, including urban development patterns and challenges * Learn qualitative and quantitative research methodologies for gathering and interpreting urban data * Apply frameworks and analytical approaches to effectively compare different cities and their unique characteristics * Develop skills in structuring and articulating well-supported written analyses of urban phenomena * Explore the impact of modern trends like sustainable development and data-driven urban planning on city futures * Practice critically evaluating urban policies and design principles through case studies and written exercises The course begins with an introduction to key urban concepts and historical perspectives, then progresses through various research techniques and comparative analysis methods, culminating in guidance on presenting your findings. This course is designed for absolute beginners with no prior experience in urban studies, urban planning, or social science research. Begin your journey into understanding the dynamic world of cities today.