African cities : An Introduction to Urban Planning from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to African Cities and Urban Planning (Part I)

The state of urbanized zones. What are the big issues and challenges? A first approach to urban planning.

Introduction to African Cities and Urban Planning (Part 2)

Following the first week, we will continue to explore African cities by their issues, the challenges they represent, and the urban models which they are issued.

Urban Themes

Urban planning relies on tools in order to organize transportation, amenities, spaces, and housing. The result is a channeling of urban forms.

Urban Functions

Here we will learn to establish subdivisions step by step.

Urban Planning and its Tools

Cities finance themselves; They require resources which are acquired through diverse means.

The Future of Cities, or How to Plan?

Combating climate change and changing our manners of making the city

Tool and Methods

Governing contemporary African cities

The Actions of Operational Urbanism : Subdivisions

The zones which are the most important in contemporary African cities are subdivisions, so we will dedicate an entire week covering it.

The Actions of Operational Urbanism: Restructuring and Urban Projects

This week, we will plunge into the heart of precarious zones in trying to understand their role in the city.

The Costs and Funding of Cities

Financing of the city, addressing, and land registry

Governance: Which Partnerships?

This week will be composed of a first part dealing with methodology and a second part on urban governance.

Conclusions

Measuring the real impact of planning on urban functions; Synthesis and reminders; Conclusions

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores the complexities of urban planning in African cities through a comprehensive examination of its technical, environmental, social, and economic dimensions

Suitable for learners interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in urban planning within the African context

Provides a comprehensive overview of urban planning concepts and practices, making it suitable for learners looking to build a foundation in this field

Instructors are experienced professionals from the Urban and Regional community at EPFL, lending credibility to the course content

Emphasizes the practical aspects of urban planning through case studies and examples, enhancing its relevance to real-world applications

Requires learners to actively participate in discussions and contribute to the course community, fostering engagement and knowledge sharing

Reviews summary

Urban planning in africa: a course for learners

According to students, this course provides learners with a detailed and illustrative overview of urban planning in African cities. Students say it is well-structured and engaging, but also challenging. It covers a range of topics relevant to urban planning in Africa, including its history, challenges, and future prospects.

Provides insightful information about urban planning.

"Studied a whole lot. Very insightful course."

"Le cours couvre de vastes domaines de la planification urbaine, partant du contexte général des villes africaines jusqu'aux questions de financement et d'aménagement du territoire."

"Tout au long du cours, on apprend beaucoup sur la situation particulière de chaque ville, ainsi que sur des études de cas illustratives."

Covers a wide range of urban planning topics.

"The course covers de vastes domaines de la planification urbaine, partant du contexte général des villes africaines jusqu'aux questions de financement et d'aménagement du territoire."

"I really enjoyed this introduction. It was very thorough and productive, giving the course taker good insights and structure on the world of urban planning particularly in the global south."

Content could be more up to date.

"Très bon cours, il devrait être mis à jour cependant."

Can be challenging, especially the quizzes.

"very tough course to complete specially the last Quiz assignment"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in African cities : An Introduction to Urban Planning with these activities:

Review syllabus and revise related topics

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Recall and consolidate knowledge related to urban planning in Africa, making the transition to the course content smoother.

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Review the course syllabus to understand course structure, learning outcomes, and requirements.
Revise key concepts and theories related to urbanization, African cities, and urban planning.

Explore online resources on urban planning in Africa

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Enhance understanding of concepts by engaging with diverse perspectives and practical applications of urban planning in Africa.

Browse courses on Urban Governance

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Identify reputable websites, research articles, and documentaries on urban planning in Africa.
Review materials to gain insights into different aspects of urban planning, from urban design to policy implementation.

Discuss key concepts with classmates

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Foster critical thinking and knowledge sharing by engaging with peers, leading to a deeper understanding of the course material.

Browse courses on Urbanization

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Form study groups or connect with classmates to discuss course concepts and share perspectives.
Analyze and critically evaluate different viewpoints on urban planning in Africa.

Four other activities

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Develop a presentation on urban planning challenges facing a selected African city

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Apply knowledge by creating a presentation, enhancing comprehension of the challenges and strategies involved in urban planning for African cities.

Browse courses on Urban Challenges

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Choose an African city facing urban challenges and research its specific context.
Identify key challenges related to urbanization, infrastructure, housing, or social issues.
Develop recommendations for urban planning strategies to address the identified challenges.
Create a presentation to showcase your research findings and proposed solutions.

Participate in an urban planning or community development project

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Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, fostering a deeper understanding of urban planning and its impact on communities.

Browse courses on Community Development

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Identify local organizations or initiatives involved in urban planning or community development.
Contact the organization to inquire about volunteer opportunities and requirements.
Participate in activities such as community meetings, data collection, or project implementation.

Attend industry conferences and workshops on urban planning

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Connect with experts and gain insights into cutting-edge advancements and best practices in urban planning.

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Research upcoming conferences and workshops related to urban planning in Africa or the Global South.
Attend sessions to learn from industry leaders, academics, and practitioners.

Develop a prototype for an urban planning intervention

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Integrate knowledge and skills gained in the course by creating a hands-on solution to a specific urban planning issue.

Browse courses on Urban Design

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Identify an urban planning issue or challenge that you would like to address.
Research and analyze the issue, considering its context and potential solutions.
Design and develop a prototype of your proposed intervention.
Test and evaluate your prototype to assess its feasibility and effectiveness.

Career center

Learners who complete African cities : An Introduction to Urban Planning will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Economic Development Planner

This course dives into the intricacies of urban planning, with a focus on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African cities. Economic Development Planners seeking to specialize in African urban development will find this course particularly relevant. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance will provide Economic Development Planners with the knowledge and skills to plan and manage sustainable and economically prosperous urban environments in African cities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Economic Development Planner

Infrastructure Planner

This course provides a comprehensive overview of urban planning, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African cities. Infrastructure Planners seeking to specialize in African urban development will find this course particularly relevant. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance will equip Infrastructure Planners with the knowledge and skills to plan and manage sustainable and efficient infrastructure systems in African cities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Infrastructure Planner

Housing Planner

This course provides a thorough understanding of urban planning, with a focus on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African cities. Housing Planners seeking to specialize in African urban development will find this course particularly beneficial. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance will equip Housing Planners with the knowledge and skills to plan and manage sustainable and affordable housing solutions in African cities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Housing Planner

Regional Planner

This course offers valuable insights into urban planning in the context of African cities, which face distinct challenges and opportunities. Regional Planners seeking to specialize in African urban development will find this course beneficial. The course's examination of urban forms, functions, and tools will equip Regional Planners with the knowledge and skills to plan and manage sustainable and equitable urban regions in Africa.

See salaries and explore the career path for Regional Planner

Sustainability Planner

This course explores the complexities of urban planning, with a focus on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African cities. Sustainability Planners seeking to specialize in African urban development will find this course particularly beneficial. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance will equip Sustainability Planners with the knowledge and skills to plan and manage sustainable and resilient urban environments in African cities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Planner

Urban Planner

Urban Planners play an instrumental role in shaping the future of cities. By understanding the challenges and opportunities specific to African cities through this course, Urban Planners can gain valuable insights into planning sustainable and equitable urban environments. The course's focus on urban functions, planning tools, and governance will provide Urban Planners with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively address the unique challenges faced by African cities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Transportation Planner

This course delves into the complexities of urban planning, with a particular focus on African cities. Transportation Planners seeking to specialize in African urban development will find this course particularly relevant. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance will provide Transportation Planners with the knowledge and skills to plan and manage sustainable and efficient transportation systems in African cities.

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City Planner

This course is an excellent starting point for individuals aspiring to become City Planners. By immersing themselves in the unique challenges of African urban planning, students gain a deep understanding of the complexities involved in shaping sustainable and equitable cities. The course's focus on urban functions, planning processes, and governance provides a solid foundation for City Planners to effectively address the challenges and opportunities facing African cities.

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Land Use Planner

This course delves into the intricacies of urban planning, with a focus on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African cities. Land Use Planners seeking to specialize in African urban development will find this course particularly relevant. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance will provide Land Use Planners with the knowledge and skills to plan and manage sustainable and equitable land use patterns in African cities.

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Urban Designer

This course delves into the intricacies of urban planning, particularly in the context of African cities, which face distinct challenges and opportunities. Urban Designers seeking to specialize in African urban development will find this course invaluable. The course's examination of urban forms, functions, and tools will equip Urban Designers with the knowledge and skills to design sustainable and livable urban spaces that meet the specific needs of African cities.

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Environmental Planner

This course provides a comprehensive overview of urban planning, with a focus on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African cities. Environmental Planners seeking to specialize in African urban development will find this course particularly beneficial. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance will equip Environmental Planners with the knowledge and skills to plan and manage sustainable and environmentally friendly urban environments in African cities.

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Policy Analyst

This course provides a comprehensive overview of urban planning, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African cities. Policy Analysts seeking to specialize in urban policy in Africa will find this course beneficial. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance provides Policy Analysts with a valuable understanding of the policy landscape in African cities.

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Development Consultant

This course offers a solid foundation in urban planning, particularly in the context of African cities. Development Consultants seeking to specialize in urban development in Africa will find this course beneficial. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance provides Development Consultants with a valuable understanding of the complexities involved in urban development in African cities.

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Project Manager

This course offers a solid foundation in urban planning, particularly in the context of African cities. Project Managers seeking to specialize in urban development projects in Africa will find this course beneficial. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance provides Project Managers with a valuable understanding of the complexities involved in managing urban development projects in African cities.

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Researcher

This course provides a comprehensive overview of urban planning, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African cities. Researchers seeking to specialize in urban studies in Africa will find this course beneficial. The course's examination of urban functions, planning processes, and governance provides Researchers with a valuable understanding of the research landscape in African cities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Researcher