After successful completion of the course, students are able to appropriately meet current challenges of spatial development in different topics, also outside of urban areas. Using a concrete example from the field of mobility or spatial planning, practical experience is gained while dealing with a current challenge in rural areas. In the area of conflict between divergent objectives, viable solutions must be developed and presented to a critical audience of experts. In the process, restrictive framework conditions, such as in particular the legal requirements or the imperative of the economic use of public funds, have to be taken into account. This increases the realism of the work, which can promote self-organisation as well as the ability to work in teams in small groups with individual focal points.

Based on the background of dynamically changing structures in and challenges to rural areas, the course deals with the management of a concrete task in Lower Austria with as much reference to reality as possible. After a presentation of three concrete tasks from the areas of mobility, supra-local spatial planning and regional planning, the respective selected task is worked on in small groups both on site in selected regions (excursion, local inspection) and in the Office of the Lower Austrian Provincial Government (practical day). The results are presented at the end of the semester.

The contents are taught in a practical exercise. With the support of representatives of the Office of the Lower Austrian Provincial Government as well as in direct contact with those affected and actors in the region, the greatest emphasis is placed on the practical solution of a challenge. Work is done both individually and in groups.

The course is eligible for credit as a supplementary course in elective modules 3 and 4. 

General plan and written concept (max. 20 pages)

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