The course is an introduction to urban design principles and basic design skills which are need by all planners. It involves an introduction to the basic vocabulary of planning and design terminology, exploration of the general principles of urban design, understanding the meaning of places and spaces, evaluation of good and bad urban design, development of basic skills of reading and interpreting maps and plans, and the creative communication of design ideas including drawing, mapping and presentation. Teaching involves lectures, workshops, discussions, and fieldtrips. Assessment is primarily via individual projects, group work and class participation.