Beyond Planning Theory

Course goals

1. Explain the main concepts of different planning theories.
2. Apply planning theories to interpret planning issues and demonstrate how theoretical frameworks guide research design and analysis.
3. Compare and contrast the political-philosophical and epistemological assumptions that underpin planning theories.
4. Develop a theoretically informed critique of a planning issue by evaluating the relevance and limitations of one framework and constructing an alternative perspective based on another planning theory.

Content

Planners and planning theorists interpret space, society, and problems through specific conceptual lenses. Beyond Planning Theory provides students with the capacity to critically engage with diverse planning theories and understand how underlying assumptions shape the way planners interpret and respond to spatial issues. The course deepens students’ theoretical understanding and analytical skills as preparation for constructing their own conceptual frameworks during the master's thesis.

Note
Additional information will be provided in the study guide