Students are exposed to cases where these technologies have been used, or are in use, by planning-related agencies. Impacts of these technologies upon public debate and decision making are studied. Specific attention is paid to multimedia and communication technologies and how these have the ability to change the way people plan. Applies spatial analysis, GIS, and transportation planning methods to a case study of Boston. Sheds light on ongoing policy debates by analyzing empirical data using GIS and spatial models.
Students undertake a short research project individually or participate in a group project.
Particular attention is given to the role of social network analysis in the study of community. Major theoretical and methodological approaches to network analysis are explored to build a broader understanding of how social structure affects the study of community. Topics include the role of group and individual social capital. Subject of interest to students interested in the study of community and issues related to the impact of new technology on social relations. The social network approach is the study of the relations linking persons, organizations, interest groups, states, etc.