Urbanisation and Health - Promoting Sustainable Solutions from Coursera

More than half of world’s population lives in cities while only 5% did so in the 18th century. The rapid urbanisation has resulted in for example inadequate infrastructure, physical inactivity, gentrification, air pollution, and growing numbers of slum dwellers. All factors challenging health and wellbeing of the people living in the cities. In addition, when addressing climate change it has become of paramount importance to look at mitigation and adaptation investments tailored to the urban context.

As stated in the Sustainable Development Goal 11 adopted by all United Nations member states in 2015, societies need to be at the forefront in the continuous management and design of urban spaces to secure that cities and human settlements are inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.

In this course, you will learn about the key determinants of urban health including demography, climate change, air pollution, noise, transport systems, public and blue and green spaces, and policies and investments affecting sense of community and public safety. You will get a historical overview of the major trends in urban planning and meet a range of stakeholders in urban planning who will provide examples of innovative methods and people-centered approaches to create sustainable solutions.

Finally, you will be provided with a series of resources to inspire you to help create awareness and action around an idea or sustainable solution in the field of urbanisation and health.

The course has been developed (with support from EIT Health) in a partnership between the University of Copenhagen, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid and University of Coimbra.

Researchers and stakeholders in urban planning will introduce you to cases from cities in Denmark, Spain, Portugal and many other urban settings across the world.

The aim of the course is to further interdisciplinary knowledge on urbanisation and health. We plan for the courses to reach citizens and activists as well planners, practitioners and decision-makers with a professional interest in sustainable urban planning from countries around the world.

What's inside

Syllabus

How Urbanisation, Health and Urban Planning Relate

This module will provide you with an overview of the key determinants of urban health. We will take you on a journey mainly through the European history of urbanisation and urban planning to reflect on the way health concerns and wellbeing have been considered and how general trends here have influenced the design of cities all across the world. Finally, we will dive into the causes and effects of air pollution and noise, two of the major health hazards in today’s urban settings. We hope the readings and resources will inspire you to begin exploring your own urban setting in terms of e.g. density and different kinds of pollution.

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Emphasizes the significance of urban health, which is crucial for planning sustainable urban communities

Involves esteemed instructors from renowned universities, ensuring access to expert knowledge and perspectives

Focuses on the real-world challenges and solutions surrounding urban health, addressing pressing issues faced by cities today

Leverages a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from urban planning, public health, and environmental sciences

Provides practical tools and frameworks for innovation in urban health, empowering students to drive sustainable solutions

Emphasizes communication and engagement, equipping students to effectively advocate for and implement healthy urban planning strategies

Reviews summary

Urban health and sustainable city planning

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary overview of the critical links between urbanisation, public health, and sustainable development. Students frequently praise its relevance to global challenges like climate change and gentrification, appreciating the real-world case studies from diverse international cities. The course is noted for its well-structured modules and the valuable practical tools and frameworks provided, especially in sections on innovation and communication. While many find it an excellent foundation for professionals and activists, some suggest it could offer deeper dives into specific policy implementations or more advanced analytical techniques, making it potentially more suited for a broad introduction than highly specialized study.

Strong overview, but some desire more advanced content.

"While comprehensive, I sometimes wished for a deeper dive into specific policy implementations or advanced analytical tools. Still, a great foundation for further study."

"The course covers a wide range of topics, perhaps too wide at times. Some modules felt a bit rushed, and I struggled to grasp the full implications without additional research."

"It felt more like an introductory survey than a deep dive. Useful for general awareness, but perhaps not for specialists."

Generally well-organized, with minor pacing notes.

"The course structure was easy to follow, and the readings were valuable."

"It's concise, well-organized, and packed with valuable information."

"While the concepts are important, the delivery could be more engaging, especially for an online format. Good as an overview..."

Provides actionable methods for sustainable solutions.

"The section on 'Innovation and Communication' provided actionable frameworks that I can apply in my work as a community activist."

"A solid introduction to urban health. I found the modules on nature-based solutions particularly insightful, offering practical ways to integrate green and blue spaces into city planning."

"I found the module on 'Innovative Solutions' particularly inspiring, providing a roadmap for future actions."

Addresses current global issues with practical examples.

"The content was highly relevant, touching upon critical global challenges like climate change and gentrification. I especially appreciated the real-world case studies..."

"As an urban planner, I found this course incredibly useful. The examples from Denmark, Spain, and Portugal were particularly well-chosen and highlighted diverse approaches."

"This course exceeded my expectations. The way it integrates urban planning, health, and sustainability is brilliant. The content is current and addresses pressing global issues."

Connects urban planning and public health effectively.

"This course was truly eye-opening, providing a holistic view of the complex relationship between urbanisation and health."

"Excellent course! The interdisciplinary approach was exactly what I was looking for. It connected public health with urban planning in a very clear and engaging way."

"Phenomenal! The course truly promotes interdisciplinary thinking. I'm a public health professional, and I gained so much understanding of the urban planning side."

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 Urbanisation and Health - Promoting Sustainable Solutions with these activities:

Explore Online Resources on Sustainable Urban Planning

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Engaging with online materials will enhance your understanding of current trends and best practices in urban sustainability.

Browse courses on Sustainable Development Goals

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Visit the websites of organizations such as the UN Habitat and the World Health Organization
Review online courses and tutorials on sustainable urban planning
Attend webinars and virtual events hosted by industry experts

Volunteer at a Local Health Fair

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Volunteering at a health fair allows you to develop practical communication skills while educating others about health topics covered in the course.

Browse courses on Community Engagement

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Contact local health organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities
Choose a health fair that aligns with your interests and skills
Prepare materials and activities to engage with attendees
Set up your booth and interact with participants
Evaluate your experience and reflect on ways to improve outreach efforts

Complete Urban Planning Case Studies

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Solving case studies will allow you to practice applying course concepts to real-world scenarios, improving your problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Browse courses on Urban Design

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Select case studies relevant to the current course module
Read and analyze the case studies
Identify the key issues and challenges presented
Develop and evaluate potential solutions
Write a short report summarizing your findings and recommendations

Three other activities

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Design an Urban Greening Project

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Working on an actual project in your city or neighborhood will help you apply knowledge gained in the course and engage with real-world challenges.

Browse courses on Health Promotion

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Identify a target area for your project (e.g., a vacant lot, park, or street)
Research and gather information about the specific needs of the community and environment
Design a plan for your project, including details on plant selection, landscaping, and maintenance
Present your plan to community stakeholders and seek their feedback
Implement your project and monitor its progress

Create an Infographic on a Course Topic

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Creating an infographic will help you synthesize and communicate complex urban planning concepts in a visually engaging and accessible manner.

Browse courses on Nature-Based Solutions

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Choose a specific course topic to focus on
Research and gather data from credible sources
Design and create your infographic using a tool like Canva or Piktochart
Share your infographic on social media or other online platforms

Develop a Proposal for Urban Health Improvement

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Creating a proposal will allow you to apply your knowledge to a real-world problem and gain experience in developing and presenting policy recommendations.

Browse courses on Health Impact Assessment

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Identify a specific urban health issue to address
Conduct a needs assessment and collect relevant data
Develop and evaluate potential solutions
Draft a proposal outlining your recommendations and implementation plan
Present your proposal to relevant stakeholders and decision-makers

Career center

Learners who complete Urbanisation and Health - Promoting Sustainable Solutions will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Urban Planner

As an Urban Planner, you will work on projects such as creating new parks, designing new neighborhoods, and improving transportation systems. This course covers topics such as blue and green spaces, ageing and gentrification, and innovative solutions, all of which are highly relevant to the work of Urban Planners. You will also learn about the key determinants of urban health and how to create sustainable solutions that promote health and well-being. This course will provide you with a strong foundation for a career as an Urban Planner.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Urban and Regional Planner

As an Urban and Regional Planner, you will design plans for the use of land, such as how much of an area will be residential and how much will be commercial. You will also plan for roads, parks, and public transportation as well as think about how the needs of the community will affect local policies and regulations. This course covers many topics that are highly relevant to the work that Urban and Regional Planners do, including topics such as public safety, green spaces, and policies affecting the community. To be successful in this role, you should have a master's degree in urban and regional planning or a related field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban and Regional Planner

Project Manager

As a Project Manager, you will work on projects such as building new schools, improving transportation systems, and developing new urban communities. This course covers topics such as ageing and gentrification, nature-based solutions, and innovative solutions, all of which are highly relevant to the work of Project Managers in urban settings. You will also learn about the key determinants of urban health and how to create sustainable solutions that promote health and well-being. This course will provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a Project Manager in the urban planning field.

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Public Health Nurse

As a Public Health Nurse, you work to promote and maintain health within a specific community. You will work with individuals and families as well as lead community programs. One of the main focuses of public health is to identify and address the health concerns of urban communities. This course provides you with a comprehensive overview of the key determinants of urban health and provides examples of sustainable solutions. These concepts will be of great use as you work as a Public Health Nurse.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Nurse

Environmental Health Scientist

As an Environmental Health Scientist, you will investigate the potential health effects of environmental hazards such as pollution and radiation. You also work to develop and implement regulations to protect human health from environmental hazards. Many of the topics covered in this course, such as air pollution, noise, and climate change, will be of direct relevance to your work as an Environmental Health Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Health Scientist

Health Educator

As a Health Educator, you will work to improve the health of individuals and communities. You will develop and implement health education programs, and you will work with people from all walks of life. This course covers topics such as community engagement, health promotion, and disease prevention, all of which are highly relevant to the work of Health Educators. This course will provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a Health Educator.

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Epidemiologist

As an Epidemiologist, you will study how diseases spread and how to prevent them. This involves working with data from a variety of sources, including hospitals, clinics, and laboratories as well as examining environmental factors that affect health. This course covers the major determinants of urban health, which will provide a strong foundation for understanding the spread of diseases in urban areas. It also provides case studies and examples of how to create sustainable solutions to health problems.

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Policy Analyst

As a Policy Analyst, you will research and analyze public policies. You will work with data from a variety of sources, including government reports, academic studies, and stakeholder interviews. This course provides you with a strong foundation in the use of data to understand and improve urban health. You will learn about the key determinants of urban health and how to use data to develop and evaluate sustainable solutions. You will also learn about the policy-making process and how to advocate for policies that promote health and well-being.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Data Scientist

As a Data Scientist, you will use data to solve problems and make decisions. You will work with data from a variety of sources, including social media, sensors, and surveys. This course provides you with a strong foundation in the use of data to understand and improve urban health. You will learn about the key determinants of urban health and how to use data to develop and evaluate sustainable solutions.

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Urban Designer

As an Urban Designer, you will design and plan for the development of cities and towns. You will work on projects such as creating new parks, designing new neighborhoods, and improving transportation systems. This course will introduce you to the key determinants of urban health and provide examples of sustainable solutions. This knowledge will be highly valuable as you work to create healthy and sustainable communities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Designer

Landscape Architect

As a Landscape Architect, you will design outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, and playgrounds. You will work to create spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. This course covers topics such as blue and green spaces, and how they affect the health and well-being of urban residents. This knowledge will be invaluable as you design outdoor spaces.

See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect

Civil Engineer

As a Civil Engineer, you will design and construct infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and water treatment plants. This course covers topics such as air pollution, noise, and climate change, all of which can affect the design and construction of infrastructure projects. This course may help you build a foundation for working as a Civil Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer

Architect

As an Architect, you will design and build homes, offices, schools, and other buildings. You will work to create buildings that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This course covers topics such as air pollution, noise, and climate change, all of which can affect the design and construction of buildings. This course may help you build a foundation for working as an Architect.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architect

Sustainability Manager

As a Sustainability Manager, you will work to make your organization more sustainable. You will develop and implement sustainability policies and practices as well as track and report on the organization's sustainability performance. While this course does not go into the specifics of general sustainability, it does cover a number of factors that affect urban health which can be applied to making an organization more sustainable. This course may help you build a foundation to begin a career as a Sustainability Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Sustainability Consultant

The world is actively looking for ways to be more sustainable, and since so much of the population lives in cities, there is increasing demand for Sustainability Consultants. You would be responsible for understanding the needs of the community you work with and then creating a plan for how to make the community more sustainable. While this course does not go into the specifics of general sustainability, it does cover a number of factors that affect urban health which can be applied to a plan for sustainability. This course may help you build a foundation to begin a career as a Sustainability Consultant.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant

Urbanisation and Health - Promoting Sustainable Solutions

What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Urban health and sustainable city planning

Activities

Career center

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