CRP395C
The concept of smart city is an urban area that uses various forms of technology and data- driven solutions to improve the quality of life for its residents and optimize the city's operations. The goal of a smart city is to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and connectivity while providing better services and amenities. Currently, researchers and practitioners have expanded the definition of the smart city concept (https://www.smartcityexpo.com/). It is notable to see that this concept has been applied in transportation management, smart energy grids, waste management, public engagement platforms, and smart Health Initiatives.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
This course is designed to provide an introduction and overview of topics relevant to the smart cities field. Students should gain an appreciation for the application of fundamental scientific and engineering principles to address a wide range of topics related to smart cities. Students should become familiar with important information resources related to the field of smart cities, including major professional journals and institutional websites, and major professional organizations. Students will also gain experience researching, planning, and executing a smart cities project. They will learn how to analyze and interpret data as well as communicate their findings to a variety of audiences, including the public.
In detail, the learning objectives for Smart City Practicum include the following:
- Understand Basic Concepts of Smart Cities: Students will be able to describe and explain basic concepts of smart cities and discuss related topics.
- Integrate Research and Planning Praxis: Students will be able to unite planning, urban studies, housing policy, urban analytics, and other science research with planning practice.
- Resolve Complex Problems: Students will experience planning scenarios in which the goals may appear straightforward, but the means of achieving such goals are anything but straightforward.
- Develop Analytical, Presentation and Writing Skills: Planners should present and write clearly and defensibly. Strategic thinking is critical for all planners, regardless of their professional setting.
- Design Research Agendas and Develop Models: Students will be able to construct proper research design and develop initial research questions into models. They will be able to learn to work as a team, managing tasks to be completed in a timely manner.