Course overview
To develop an advanced understanding of how to conceive a research project with a clear rationale, apply diverse research methodologies, and exercise critical judgement in the context of urban and regional planning.
This course equips learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct research pertinent to urban and regional planning. It introduces a variety of methodological approaches and theoretical frameworks for designing planning research, encompassing both formal scientific models and practice-based approaches. Learners will engage in conducting a relevant literature review, formulating research questions, and identifying and justifying an appropriate research design that considers a broad spectrum of methodological options. The course aligns with the program’s objective of developing planning principles and research skills to investigate and address the dynamic relationship between society and space through qualitative and quantitative research.
- Foundations of research
- Literature review
- Research design
Course learning outcomes
- Conduct literature review and identify existing knowledge gaps to inform new research direction, themes and/or theoretical conceptualisation.
- Develop research aim/s and key questions to guide the research project, considering scope and limitations.
- Select an appropriate research methodology and method and explore the applications and limitations
- Explore ethical research in planning research projects, including respectful and culturally responsive engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Country
- Communicate a research proposal using academic language that includes the framework for a Planning Research Project.