Urban Planning Theory: South-Eastern and Global South Perspectives

Traditional urban planning frameworks often fall short when applied to the rapidly growing metropolitan areas of the Global South and South-Eastern regions. To build sustainable and inclusive cities, planners must understand the unique socio-economic, political, and spatial realities of these dynamic environments. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to urban planning theories that challenge Western-centric models and offer fresh, localized perspectives on development. You will start by mastering foundational planning concepts and terminology before exploring the complexities of mega-urban landscapes. Through structured readings and analytical exercises, you will learn how to evaluate informal settlements, infrastructure challenges, and community-led development initiatives. What you'll learn: Understand foundational urban planning theories and how they apply to diverse global contexts; Analyze the growth patterns of mega-cities and high-density urban landscapes; Explore the role of informal economies and settlements in urban development; Evaluate policy frameworks for sustainable infrastructure and land use in developing regions; Apply critical thinking to real-world urban development and governance case studies. This text-based course guides you step-by-step from core definitions to complex socio-spatial analyses, ensuring you build a well-rounded perspective on global urbanism. This course is designed for beginners, aspiring urban planners, geography students, and anyone interested in sustainable development, with no prior planning experience required. Start reading today to broaden your understanding of the forces shaping our global urban future.