Course content

The course will elaborate on theories of urban ecology relevant for urban ecological planning (UEP). The main focus of the course will be to approach and assess various theoretical approaches to the value base of UEP. First UEP will be placed in the critical context of development with focus on entitlement, vulnerability and livelihood approaches to understand poverty. Secondly, the main focus is on "another development" strategy based on territorialism, and its strength in local institutions, resources and land rights as conditions for endogenous development. Traditional values related to ethno-development are being challenged in a pluralistic society, and the framework is brought together within eco-development. An overall sustainability assessment, based on territorial strengths and sound ethno-development conditions and an eco-developmental framework, is concerned about the relationships between people, their social and resource capital, understanding a contextual, and territorial base, and settlement nature relations. Finally, urban cultural heritage conservation is used to illustrate results of diversity in approaches to authenticity and the culturally determined values.

Learning outcome

Through active participation and studies, also based on own background and Ph.D thesis subject, articulate and contribute to a diverse and deep understanding of the discourse behind the valuebase behind urban ecological planning in different cultural and material contexts.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures in seminars with interactive discussions and groupwork. During the course the students will prepare a critical review of selected articles both in writing and for presentation. At the end of the semester an essay is required as the main basis for evaluation.
Importance is given to development theory for the Ph.D research subject, and its theory and method.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

It is recommended, but not obligatory, that the students have taken AAR 4820 Urban Ecological Planning Theory and AAR 4814 Urban Ecological Planning Method.

Required previous knowledge

Some articles of the reader of AAR 4820 and of AAR 4814 will be added to mandatory reading list in consultation with the PhD candidate, if these courses have not been taken.

Course materials

Reader.