Cities and urban regions are increasingly confronted with challenges relating to sustainable development. How can this concept be understood and implemented? The aim of this seminar is to investigate the topics of sustainability and urban planning. It provides students with theoretical, conceptual and analytical tools to investigate and understand current challenges in sustainable urban transformation processes. This course is designed as an empirical course, which blends a discussion of theoretical literature with an investigation of practical examples.
In more detail, students will:
After the completion of the course, students will have investigated one current strategic approach related to sustainable urban development in detail, have an insight into core concepts regarding sustainable urban development and contemporary debates around the urban sustainability transformation process.
This VU consists of one kick-off and another 5 sessions. The Kick-off is mandatory for both SE and VU participants. Session 1 of the VU is on the same day as Session 4 of the SE (280.293). Session 2 consists of a movie screening with in-class discussion. Sessions 3 and 4 include peer teaching sessions on theoretical concepts. In session 6, groups present their final results. The group project is carried out in small groups (3 persons) and combines the analysis of contemporary concepts that address urban sustainable development challenges (such as the 2000 Watt society, resilience, sharing or smart cities) with practical examples. Additionally, students visit thematically relevant events and reflect on them in relation to the course.
