Learning objectives
The course aims at developing the students’ ability to assess the main morphological, functional and environmental aspects of an urban fabric, as a preliminary analysis for planning and programming urban regeneration interventions in the existing city.
The course aims at:
- developing the ability to critically read urban data and the main urban planning tools.
- introducing methods of urban analysis and representation through GIS (geographic information systems): data modelling of a relational database, GIS data analysis/management and spatial analysis;
- understanding the importance and role of these techniques for planning tools (in relation to the Italian context) and urban assessments;
- apply the acquired GIS techniques to a case study: an urban sector of the city of Parma;
- developing specific communication skills.
Prerequisites
The knowledge of urban planning acquired in the bachelor's degree program is taken for granted.
Basic experience in urban analysis techniques (acquired in the Bachelor's degree) and in drafting reports and graphic boards is required.
Course unit content
The course addresses the complex relationships between urban form, function and environment, delving into the main tools of urban analysis and assessment techniques preparatory to urban regeneration in the existing city.
The course guides the student through a rigorous analytical and evaluation process, supported by GIS (Geographical Information System) applied to a case study: an urban sector of a mid-sized city (Parma).
The following topics will be analysed:
- the mutual approach of land uses and the public and private spheres (synergies and conflicts);
- urban density issues;
- socio-demographic issues;
- provision of public spaces and facilities;
- urban accessibility, with a focus on active mobility;
- ecological-environmental performance of the urban fabric.
In addition, the course explores the topic of urban vulnerability to climate change, focusing on possible planning measures aimed at mitigation and adaptation.
Full programme
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Bibliography
Main references:
- Biallo G. (2004), Introduzione ai Sistemi Informativi Geografici, MondoGIS.
- Gehl J., Life Between Buildings: Using Public Space, Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, New York 1987
- Laurini R. (2001), Information System for Urban Planning: A Hypermedia Cooperative Approach, CRC Press
- Manzini E. (2021), Abitare la prossimità. Idee per la città dei 15 minuti, Egea
- Musco F. (2009), Rigenerazione e sostenibilità, Franco Angeli, Milano
- Ventura P. (2018), La città nuova. Elementi di progettazione urbanistica, McGraw-Hill.
Educational material in the form of slides and notes will be available in the Elly web page (2023) of the course.
Teaching methods
- Lectures on theoretical and technical aspects related to GIS and preparatory assessment for urban regeneration interventions.
- Exercises: group activity for the implementation of a relational database in a GIS environment, applied to an urban sector in Parma, using Quantum GIS software.
- Integrated workshop activities for the urban regeneration of a block within the assigned urban sector of Parma.
- Eventual seminars and/or study trips.
Assessment methods and criteria
In addition to the delivery of the final design studio and the oral test (see the corresponding item of the course 'Laboratorio di pianificazione urbanistica per la città sostenibile'), the module includes an intermediate group delivery of the relational database constructed in a GIS environment to support the analysis and evaluation of the assigned urban area. The GIS database will be accompanied by a short technical report containing the technical specifications of the database.
Other information
Attending 70% of the lessons is compulsory for admission to final exam. Participating in GIS practical exercises in class is highly recommended.
