This course aims to develop a critical understanding of spatial planning based on academic discourses, the international development agenda and students' own experiences. Throughout the course the role of spatial data and information systems in urban planning and management will be highlighted and illustrated.
Students will develop a spatial understanding of specific urban issues in the students' home country by applying knowledge and skills in spatial information handling. Students are introduced to a set of both spatial and non-spatial methods relevant for the practice of urban planning and management. The concepts of Sustainability, Gentrification and Informality will be introduced and discussed. Available databases and data catalogues are explored to discuss different approaches to sustainability frameworks and assessments, and to understand the urban processes of gentrification and informality.