Urban Design and Civic Engagement

  • Urban Design and Civic Engagement (Levels 9 & 4)

    Open to Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors | Prerequisite: World History

    Urban Design and Civic Engagement is a new innovative, team-taught course that brings together Social Studies and Applied Arts together!

    Urban Design and Civic Engagement is a hands-on, studio-based course where students will explore the relationship between urban planning, government policies, and the design of cities. Discover how sustainability, economics, technology, and society shape urban spaces, with a special focus on how public policies impact city design and development.

    Students will engage with real-world case studies and the New Trier township, examining how cities have evolved and how urban areas are being reimagined today. Through hands-on activities and the use of cutting-edge tools like GIS and CAD programs, students will design and propose innovative urban plans, taking their ideas from concept to presentation. The course also provides opportunities to engage with local governments, participate in zoning meetings, and advocate for policies that influence urban spaces.  This course fulfills the civics graduation requirement.

    About:

    • Design Studio Environment: Work like an urban designer, creating city layouts and land development plans with a focus on community impact.  Use a Human Centered Design approach to solve design challenges. 
    • Policy and Planning: Explore how government decisions shape urban spaces, and analyze the role of policy in city design and land use.
    • Hands-On Projects: Use software tools to bring urban design ideas to life through 3D modeling, site planning, and urban analysis.
    • Engage with the Community: Present design proposals to local officials, attend community meetings, and participate in debates on current urban issues.
    • Civic Involvement: Learn how to take informed action and advocate for change, integrating design thinking with civic engagement.
    • Earn Dual College Credit: This course fulfills the civics graduation requirement and includes the study of the federal and state constitutions.

    Potential Topics:

    • Quarter 1: Foundations
      Dive into the basics of urban design. Understand the history, principles, and elements that define city planning, from walkability to stormwater management.
    • Quarter 2: Analysis
      Explore the factors that shape urban spaces today. Analyze local communities, learn about zoning, and evaluate how design reflects community values.
    • Quarter 3: Applications
      Apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Design solutions for urban challenges, consider the impact of policies, and create proposals that reflect your vision for better cities.
    • Quarter 4: Problem Solving and Action
      Put your skills to the test by advocating for your design solutions. Engage in simulations, town hall meetings, and collaborative projects to bring your ideas to life.

    Microcredentials Earned:

    • TBA

    Skills Developed:

    • Critical thinking and problem-solving
    • Design Thinking and Human Centered Design
    • Urban analysis and design
    • Civic engagement and advocacy
    • 3D modeling and CAD skills
    • Understanding of government processes