
WHAT IS PLANNING??
Basics of urban and regional planning
This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts, processes, and tools that shape how cities and regions are planned, developed, and managed. It explores the dynamic relationship between people, places, and the built environment, emphasizing how planning decisions influence social equity, environmental sustainability, economic development, and overall quality of life.
Students will examine the historical evolution of urban planning, key theories of city form and growth, and the roles played by planners in government, private practice, and community settings. Core topics include land-use planning, transportation systems, housing policy, environmental management, urban design principles, and regional planning frameworks. The course also highlights contemporary challenges such as climate change, rapid urbanization, infrastructure demand, and inclusive community engagement.
Through lectures, case studies, and practical exercises, students will learn how to analyze urban issues, interpret planning documents, and use basic planning tools to evaluate development scenarios. By the end of the course, participants will have a solid foundation for understanding how planning decisions are made and how interdisciplinary approaches can help create resilient, livable, and sustainable communities. This course serves as a gateway to further study in urban planning and related fields.
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