Brief Introduction
Explore what makes cities energizing, amazing, challenging, and perhaps humanity’s greatest invention.Course Summary
Explore the past, present, and future of urban life in this comprehensive course from Harvard University. Learn about the history of cities, the challenges they face today, and the innovative solutions being developed for a sustainable urban future.Key Learning Points
- Discover the history and evolution of cities and urban life
- Explore the challenges facing modern cities, including climate change and inequality
- Learn about innovative solutions for sustainable urban development
Related Topics for further study
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the history and evolution of cities
- Identify the challenges facing modern cities
- Develop innovative solutions for sustainable urban development
Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course
- No prior knowledge or experience required
- Access to a computer and internet connection
Course Difficulty Level
IntermediateCourse Format
- Online
- Self-paced
- Video lectures
- Interactive assignments
Similar Courses
- Sustainable Cities
- Urban Challenges in Emerging Countries
Related Education Paths
Notable People in This Field
- Jane Jacobs
- Jan Gehl
Related Books
Description
Course description
For the first time in human history, more than fifty percent of the world’s population lives in urban areas. Cities allow for the exchange of ideas and generate remarkable innovations in business, art, and ideas. Cities are also home to millions living in poverty. Urban living can provide a pathway to a better life, but that’s not always the case for many people around the world.
CitiesX will give you a far-ranging look at the past, present and future of cities, with the aim of teaching you how to better understand, appreciate and improve urban areas. The course will explore key concepts of urban development by examining cities around the world, including London, Rio de Janiero, New York City, Shanghai, Mumbai, Kigali, and many more.
The course includes a historical exploration of cities: how urban centers like ancient Rome resulted from the consolidation of imperial power, how cities like Sao Paulo grew as important hotbeds of industry, and how cities like Seattle became hubs of technology and human capital.
CitiesX also dives into pressing social and urban planning issues like public health, transportation, zoning, gentrification, cost of living, crime, and congestion. The course includes interviews and insights from academics, policymakers, urban leaders and city residents.
The analytical framework of the course comes from economics but is enhanced by conversations with experts from other disciplines (including Sociology, Urban Planning, Journalism, Anthropology, History, Art & Music) to provide learners with a greater understanding of all aspects of urbanism.
Support for CitiesX is generously provided by Tishman Speyer.
Knowledge
- What you'll learn
- A deeper understanding of what urbanism looks like around the world
- A historical perspective on the rise of cities throughout the world
- The role local and national governments play in developing and distorting cities
- The cultural contributions cities make to how we live, love, and learn
- The role of transportation in creating a liveable city
- Different approaches to analyzing public policy in cities
Summary of User Reviews
Discover the evolution of urban life in this comprehensive course offered by Harvard. Users have praised the course for its comprehensive and detailed approach to understanding the past, present, and future of cities.Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course
Comprehensive and detailed approach to understanding urban lifePros from User Reviews
- Engaging and informative lectures
- Excellent course materials and resources
- Great opportunity to learn from top Harvard professors
- In-depth exploration of urban planning and design
- Well-structured and easy to follow course
Cons from User Reviews
- Some users found the course content to be too basic
- Limited interaction with other students
- Course can be time-consuming
- Not suitable for those looking for a quick overview of urban life
- No certification or degree offered upon completion
CitiesX: The Past, Present and Future of Urban Life
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