About This Course

This course explores the intricate relationship between urban design and socio-economic factors such as inequality and segregation. Taught by senior experts and editors of the SpringerOpen book on socio-economic segregation, the curriculum incorporates a global perspective with case studies from across the world, providing comprehensive insights into the drivers, measurement, and impacts of segregation in urban environments.

Course Description

Urban design significantly affects socio-economic segregation and inequality in cities globally. In this course, participants learn about the fundamental causes and symptoms of urban inequality and the role of urban planning and architecture in either exacerbating or mitigating these issues.

What Students Will Learn

• Identification of main drivers and indicators of urban inequality and segregation.
• Methods for measuring segregation and interpreting analysis results.
• Insights into how urban design influences socio-economic dynamics in cities.
• Development of urban design and policy solutions tailored to specific contexts.

Prerequisites or Skills Necessary

It is recommended that participants first take the "Rethink the City" MOOC to gain a foundational understanding of the topics covered in this course.

Course Cover

• Global trends in urban segregation and inequality.
• Historical impact of urban design on socio-economic structures.
• Case studies from various global cities.
• Practical projects and assignments related to participants' local contexts.

Who This Course Is For

This course is designed for a wide audience including urban planners, architects, geographers, and anyone interested in understanding and combating urban inequality and segregation.

Real-World Application

Skills acquired in this course can be applied to addressing real-world challenges in urban environments, influencing policy making, urban planning, and community engagements to foster more equitable and integrated urban spaces.

Course Syllabus

• Week 1: Introduction and Basic Concepts
• Week 2: The Vicious Circle of Segregation
• Week 3-5: Inclusive Design at Regional, City, and Neighborhood Scales
• Week 6: Final Assignment
• Week 7: Review and Reflections