Syllabus

photo credits: Ajuntament de Barcelona / Infografia Clariana (LaVanguardia)

 

Description

These lectures will expand the knowledge on urban economics and new economies in cities, paying particular attention to how cities can grow and react to external forces that affect the city. This seminar will explore the socio?economic dimensions of sustainable urban transformation, analysing governance, innovation and the changes in production, distribution and consumption in cities.

It will introduce the basic urban economic concepts to understand how some economic principles might be relevant in designing and managing our cities. Case studies from Barcelona will be used to learn best practices and failures, comparing them to other cases worldwide. During the seminar, we will gain an understanding of concepts such as urban challenges, platform urbanism, knowledge-based economy, sustainable development goals, and circular economy.

Lastly, this seminar will also count with the intervention of a few experts that will share their experience in some topics related to the content of the course. They will provide participants with a valuable opportunity to explore ongoing urban innovation projects aimed at creating more resilient and sustainable cities while expanding the way cities are being conceptualised.

 

Learning Methodology

During the course the students will apply theoretical knowledge to analyse and understand the past, present and future of specific areas of the city. Each session will end with the review of the case studies, sharing insights and encouraging the students to engage in understanding the analysis being presented. This methodology will consolidate the theory into practical exercises, understanding how different layers of analysis might provide valuable information for further proposals.

Learning Objectives

At course completion the student will:

  • Understanding urban economics principles: This refers to gaining knowledge about the economic aspects and dynamics that are specific to urban areas. It involves understanding how cities function economically, including topics like urban development, housing markets, transportation, and the impact of policies on the urban economy.
  • Trends in urban economics (strategies, economic agendas): This involves studying the current and emerging trends in urban economics. It includes analysing strategies and economic agendas that cities and urban areas are adopting to address various challenges and opportunities, such as sustainable development, innovation, and economic growth.
  • Incorporating aspects related to the course in design processes: This promotes using skills and tools gained from other courses into the process of designing urban spaces and projects. It’s about combining inputs from different classes to propose comprehensive solutions.
  • Getting to Know Barcelona: This means familiarising yourself with the city of Barcelona. It could involve learning about its history, culture, economy, and urban development.

 

photo credits: The New York Times – Return to Office Hits a Snag: Young Resisters (Nov. 2021). Author: Albert Tercero

Faculty


Faculty Assitants


Projects from this course

Slo-Mo-Go: Tourism in Slow Motion

A digital tool proposed to re-boost the economy of Ciutat Vella, Barcelona Overview Ciutat Vella being the oldest district of the city of Barcelona was founded in the 1500 BC. The Ciutat Vella district was a very important economic hub for Barcelona. But in the recent times, the district faces problems that are characterised by … Read more

La Zona Franca, Barcelona. A new centrality?

The Zona Franca in Barcelona is an area that receives thousands of workers everyday and, having The Port, is one of the main points of contact of the city with the rest of the world. Through a quick analysis based on an understanding of the site, questions and issues within Barcelona’s ‘Free-Trade’ zone are tackled … Read more

Valor del Districte Platform

Catalyzing Innovation in 22@Nord Barcelona’s 22@Nord district, often referred to as the former “Catalan Manchester,” is poised to become the epicenter of digital knowledge and innovation. This transformation aligns with Barcelona’s commitment to technology, engagement, and education, setting the stage for the implementation of the Valor del Districte Platform to support resident and public investment … Read more