Elective Course
Credits: 3-0-3 (3 semester hours)
Type of Course: Lecture/Seminar
Instructors: William Drummond
Prerequisites Graduate Standing:
Course Overview: This course examines both the theoretical and practical foundations of research design and is structured to explore these topics in both their historical and contemporary context. It is important to consider the design of research within the framework of scientific inquiry and logic and to make its application relevant within the contemporary urban planning research environment. This is the primary objective of the course and the perspective that shapes the review of relevant material. This critical perspective is the basis for excellence in research design applications including the development of basic skill and techniques.
Learning Objectives: Fostering the development of basic skills and techniques through a critical perspective. Exposing students to the basic tenets of research design and testing their ability to apply these methods within the field of city and regional planning.
Course Requirements: In addition to the class lectures there are a number of assignments that are structured to test the students' ability to apply theory in formulating research design protocols. Each student is required to lead a discussion of one of the topics covered in the course. There will be a final exam.