This seminar brings together seniors to explore enduring and contemporary debates in urban studies. We reflect on the issues that arise in an increasingly urbanized world and how we can address them in our work. One focus is on planning research for a major project, such as a senior thesis or capstone project. Another contemporary topic is the impact of climate change and pandemic diseases on city location and structure. We also consider urban futures, viewing past, present, and future planning perspectives: how they operate, what infrastructure and governance systems underpin them, and how they are best shaped and governed by their primary stakeholders. After reviewing alternative approaches to urban theory and practice, students study a topic of their own choosing. The seminar culminates in presenting an introductory chapter, which may lead to an optional senior thesis or project in the spring semester.
- Instructor: Brian Godfrey