Urban Design and Active Transportation

3 credits · Undergraduate

The purpose of this course is to help students develop their understanding of urban design strategies and active transportation concepts that can be used to improve people’s experiences and contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of society. The learning outcomes are to explain why humanistic urban design is important in cities and communities; to communicate the breadth of urban design and active transport network features used to enhance public life; to critique the specific design elements of selected public spaces, sidewalks, streets, transport elements; and, to assess the potential to transfer specific design elements to Saskatoon, Canada, or another city with which the student is familiar. The intended skills-based learning outcomes are to undertake independent enquiry and self-directed learning; to demonstrate critical analysis and reflection skills; to evaluate options to improve the built environment by infusing humanistic urban design elements; to critically discuss active transportation network element integrations with urban design features; to develop improved confidence and demonstrate independence in self-directed way-finding; to lead topical discussions with peers, with supportive prompts and assistance provided by the instructor; and, to transmit a clear perspective on the key city elements of humanistic urban design and networks visually, orally and in writing.