Students
GSE 830 – Sustainable Urban Regions
2015 – S2 Evening
General Information
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| Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Unit Convenor and Lecturer
Robyn Dowling
Contact via Email
W3A 417
By appointment. Please email to arrange.
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| Credit points |
Credit points
4
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| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
Admission to MEnvEd or PGDipEnvEd or PGCertEnvEd or MEngMgt or MEnvMgt or PGCertEnvMgt or MEnvStud or PGDipEnvStud or MEnvPlan or MEnvSc or MSusDev or PGDipSusDev or PGCertSusDev or MWldMgt or PGDipWldMgt or PGCertWldMgt or MEnv or PGDipEnv or PGCertEnv or MClimCh or MSc in Remote Sensing and GIS or PGDipSc in Remote Sensing and GIS or PGCertSc in Remote Sensing and GIS or GradDipEnv or GradCertSusDev or GradDipSusDev or GradCertSIA or GradDipSIA or GradCertEnvPlan or MConsBiol or GradDipConsBiol
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| Corequisites |
Corequisites
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| Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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| Unit description |
Unit description
This unit examines the social, economic and environmental challenges associated with developing sustainable cities and urban regions internationally. Opportunities and barriers to implementing more sustainable urban management and planning practices are explored. Students undertake their own case study; critically assessing response strategies and developing their own sustainability plans.
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Important Academic Dates
Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- Understand the differences and similarities of processes and governance that shape change in diverse urban regions;
- Develop a foundation in sustainable planning with a focus on strategic issues;
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Compile and analysis a range of qualitative and quantitative data in support of sustainable urban planning
- Give succinct and informative oral presentations
- Demonstrate understanding of contemporary transport policies and futures
Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Due |
|---|---|---|
| Patterns of Urbanisation | 20% | 16 August 2014 |
| Essay on smart transport | 35% | 28 September |
| Smart Transport Presentation | 5% | 29 September |
| Assessment of City Plans | 25% | 3 November 2015 |
| Workshop Preparation | 15% | Weekly |
Patterns of Urbanisation
Due: 16 August 2014
Weighting: 20%
- Report on urbanisation patterns in two continents based on UN data. 1000 words plus maps, graphs, and tables.
Understanding urbanisation patterns and prospects are key to planning sustainable cities. For this first assessment task you are required to prepare a short report on urbanisation trends between 1980 and 2050 for two continents. More guidance, including marking criteria, will be given in Week 1 and made available on iLearn.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Develop a foundation in sustainable planning with a focus on strategic issues;
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Compile and analysis a range of qualitative and quantitative data in support of sustainable urban planning
Essay on smart transport
Due: 28 September
Weighting: 35%
Technology and the sharing economy have converged to produce a number of new forms of transport, including, but not confined to, car sharing, Uber, RideShare, bike sharing, autonomous cars, electric vehicles and the like . Write an essay that critically assesses the sustainability potential and planning implications of one of these.
You are not expected to conduct primary research for this essay. Rather, you are to use academic and grey literature to build your argument. The reference list below is a starting point, though additional references will also be expected.
Reference List
Available via iLearn
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Understand the differences and similarities of processes and governance that shape change in diverse urban regions;
- Develop a foundation in sustainable planning with a focus on strategic issues;
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Compile and analysis a range of qualitative and quantitative data in support of sustainable urban planning
- Demonstrate understanding of contemporary transport policies and futures
Smart Transport Presentation
Due: 29 September
Weighting: 5%
In this assessment you will present the findings of your Smart Transport essay in class.
The presentation should adhere to the 'Three Minute Thesis' (3MT) guidelines: 3 minutes and only one powerpoint slide. Examples of 3MT can be found at: https://www.vitae.ac.uk/events/three-minute-thesis-competition
Presentations will be peer evaluated using the 3MT judging criteria.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Compile and analysis a range of qualitative and quantitative data in support of sustainable urban planning
- Give succinct and informative oral presentations
- Demonstrate understanding of contemporary transport policies and futures
Assessment of City Plans
Due: 3 November 2015
Weighting: 25%
The goal here is to critically assess the content and approach of city-wide sustainability plans.
You will produce a written report of 1500 words, including references.
Throughout the first half of the semester you will be introduced to a number of different cities as case study examples. Use these discussions, and your wider reading, to help you choose a city. You should then collate and analyse sustainability plans for that city. The individual report you produce should include:
- the institutional context
- the scale of planning
- key mechanisms used
- what elements (e.g. transport, land use, climate change, housing, etc.) are defined as critical to sustainability.
Tips for assignment 1:
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Include an executive summary, introduction, a body (main argument) and a conclusion (answer the question).
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Consider the use of tables and diagrams to summarise your information.
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Comply with the word count and condense your work to present a concise argument.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Understand the differences and similarities of processes and governance that shape change in diverse urban regions;
- Develop a foundation in sustainable planning with a focus on strategic issues;
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
Workshop Preparation
Due: Weekly
Weighting: 15%
Each workshop/tutorial will require preparation before class - either reading or engagement with other material. You are required to provide evidence of preparation in the form of an iLearn blog post specific to the material each week.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Develop a foundation in sustainable planning with a focus on strategic issues;
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Compile and analysis a range of qualitative and quantitative data in support of sustainable urban planning
- Demonstrate understanding of contemporary transport policies and futures
Delivery and Resources
Classes
Classes are held on Tuesdays commencing at 6:00pm and concluding at 9:00pm. GSE830 is only available in internal mode, hence attending classes is necessary to maximise the learning outcomes. Classes will consist of both lectures and a variety of learning activities spread over the three hour block.
Workload Expectation
It is generally expected that students will commit at least 3 hours per week per credit point in their studies. Thus, in addition to attending weekly classes for 3 hours, students are expected to complete appropriate reading, research and other activities equivalent to at least 9 hours per week. Thus the total workload for this unit should be considered as a minimum of 12 hours per week throughout the semester.
Technology
GSE830 makes extensive use of iLearn for both resources and assessment. Resources for weekly workshops, readings, blog questions are on iLearn, as well as readings for assignments. Turnitin will be used for submitted assignments. Access to the internet and regular access to the unit’s website is essential for GSE830.
Unit Schedule
| Date | Lecture | Workshop | Assessment/Homework |
| 28 July | Introduction: Defining Sustainable Cities in the 21st Century | Overview of Assessment and Learning Activities | Allocation of cities for assessment 1 |
| 4 August | Planetary Urbanisation: Living in an Urban World | Cities, Urban Theory, and Urban Planning | Submit blog post on reading before class |
| 11 August | Uses of Data in Planning for Sustainable Urbanism | Describing Patterns of Urbanisation | Submit blog post before class |
| 18 August | Transport and Sustainability | Transport Policy (T) | Assessment 1 due 16 August |
| 25 August | Shared Mobility | Exploring Shared Mobility | Blog post on shared mobility |
| 1 September | Public Transport | Public Transport Accessibility Using SNAMUTS | Blog post on SNAMUTS |
| 8 September | Active Transport | 3MT Guidelines | No blog post |
| 14-27 | SEPTEMBER | NO | CLASSES |
| 29 September | 3MT Competition | 3MT Competition | Smart Transport Essay and Presentation Due |
| 6 October | Strategic Planning | No workshop | No blog post |
| 13 October | Land Use: Compact Cities | Debates about Density (T) | Blog post on tutorial readings |
| 20 October | Technology: Smart Cities | Smart Cities from the Ground Up | Blog post on Smart Cities report |
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27 October
3 Nov |
Behaviour Change
Overview |
Carbon Counters, Ecological Footprints |
Blog post on carbon counters
Assessment of City Plan report due |
Policies and Procedures
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
Academic Honesty Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html
Assessment Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy.html
Grading Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grading/policy.html
Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html
Grievance Management Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grievance_management/policy.html
Disruption to Studies Policy http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/disruption_studies/policy.html The Disruption to Studies Policy is effective from March 3 2014 and replaces the Special Consideration Policy.
In addition, a number of other policies can be found in the Learning and Teaching Category of Policy Central.
Student Code of Conduct
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/support/student_conduct/
Results
Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.
Student Support
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
Learning Skills
Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.
Student Services and Support
Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.
Student Enquiries
For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au
IT Help
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://informatics.mq.edu.au/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
Graduate Capabilities
PG - Capable of Professional and Personal Judgment and Initiative
Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Understand the differences and similarities of processes and governance that shape change in diverse urban regions;
- Develop a foundation in sustainable planning with a focus on strategic issues;
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Compile and analysis a range of qualitative and quantitative data in support of sustainable urban planning
Assessment tasks
- Patterns of Urbanisation
- Essay on smart transport
- Smart Transport Presentation
- Assessment of City Plans
- Workshop Preparation
PG - Discipline Knowledge and Skills
Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Understand the differences and similarities of processes and governance that shape change in diverse urban regions;
- Develop a foundation in sustainable planning with a focus on strategic issues;
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Compile and analysis a range of qualitative and quantitative data in support of sustainable urban planning
- Give succinct and informative oral presentations
- Demonstrate understanding of contemporary transport policies and futures
Assessment tasks
- Patterns of Urbanisation
- Essay on smart transport
- Smart Transport Presentation
- Assessment of City Plans
- Workshop Preparation
PG - Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking
Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Understand the differences and similarities of processes and governance that shape change in diverse urban regions;
- Develop a foundation in sustainable planning with a focus on strategic issues;
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Compile and analysis a range of qualitative and quantitative data in support of sustainable urban planning
- Demonstrate understanding of contemporary transport policies and futures
Assessment tasks
- Patterns of Urbanisation
- Essay on smart transport
- Smart Transport Presentation
- Assessment of City Plans
- Workshop Preparation
PG - Research and Problem Solving Capability
Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Understand the differences and similarities of processes and governance that shape change in diverse urban regions;
- Develop a foundation in sustainable planning with a focus on strategic issues;
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Compile and analysis a range of qualitative and quantitative data in support of sustainable urban planning
- Demonstrate understanding of contemporary transport policies and futures
Assessment tasks
- Patterns of Urbanisation
- Essay on smart transport
- Smart Transport Presentation
- Assessment of City Plans
- Workshop Preparation
PG - Effective Communication
Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Compile and analysis a range of qualitative and quantitative data in support of sustainable urban planning
- Give succinct and informative oral presentations
Assessment tasks
- Patterns of Urbanisation
- Essay on smart transport
- Smart Transport Presentation
- Assessment of City Plans
- Workshop Preparation
PG - Engaged and Responsible, Active and Ethical Citizens
Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Understand the differences and similarities of processes and governance that shape change in diverse urban regions;
- Be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for managing and developing urban regions;
- Demonstrate understanding of contemporary transport policies and futures
Assessment tasks
- Patterns of Urbanisation
- Essay on smart transport
- Smart Transport Presentation
- Assessment of City Plans
- Workshop Preparation
Changes from Previous Offering
This unit is being taught by a new staff member in 2015 and has been extensively revised. The pivotal differences relate to the emphasis on global as well as Australian examples.