Introduction to the Healthy Urban Systems MOOC

The Healthy Urban Systems MOOC is a comprehensive course designed for individuals from various disciplines, including city planning, health, environment, social and human sciences, data sciences, and design. This course aims to address urban health through complex multidisciplinary approaches.

Course Objectives

On this course, participants will learn to:

• Address urban health through complex multidisciplinary approaches
• Use multidimensional and multiscale concepts, methods, and ecosystem frameworks
• Mobilize and support all players directly or indirectly involved in urban health

Course Structure and Materials

The MOOC is delivered through a range of materials, including:

• Videos
• Glossary
• Quizzes
• Exercises
• Discussion forums The course lasts for a duration of 4 weeks, with 1 session per week to be taken at the participant's convenience.

Workload and Accreditation

The workload for this course is estimated at 2 to 3 hours per week. Accreditation is possible and not compulsory, with 2 ECTS available for Part I, issued by the University of Lausanne.

General Coordination

The general coordination of the MOOC is managed by the University of Lausanne – UNIL-EPFL Foundation for Continuing Education, under the direction of Prof. Céline Rozenblat and Jeff van de Poel.

Course Content

The MOOC is divided into parts, with Part I focusing on Concepts and Observations. This part contains 2 modules: Module 1 and Module 2.

Module 1: A Multidisciplinary Framework

• Coordinator: Ibtihal El-Bastawissi
• Content:
  • Introduction to key concepts and perspectives
  • Urban health, SDGs, and planetary limits
  • History of Urban Health
  • Complex systems
  • Systemic risks
  • The collaborative approach as a complex system
• Examples:
  • Health issues for southern and northern cities
  • Housing and Climate
  • The BAU multidisciplinary laboratory (architecture, medicine, engineering)

Module 2: Observing, Measuring, and Representing

• Coordinator: Celine Rozenblat
• Content:
  • Observations with various examples
  • Dimensions, scales, levels, temporalities (delineations, multi-scale)
  • Mixed data
  • Cohort example
  • Data management and ethical issues
  • Old and new data collection
  • Machine learning and remote sensing
  • Identifying determinants, ecological fallacy
  • Elaborating data framework with "machine scientist"
  • Entry points, Assets-based approaches

Part II and Part III

Part II, focusing on Theories and Models, will begin on 15 December 2023, and Part III, focusing on Urban Design and Policies, will begin on 15 January 2024. Each part lasts for 4 weeks and offers 2 ECTS.

Faculty and Contributors

The MOOC features a diverse range of international contributors, including:

• Ibtihal Y. El-Bastawissi
• Jo Ivey Boufford
• Carlos Dora
• Franz Gatzweiler
• Evelyne de Leeuw
• Hany Ayyad
• Marie Valentine Florin
• Michael Davies
• Celine Rozenblat
• Martin Loidl
• Jason Thompson
• Stephane Joost
• Pedro Manuel Marques Vidal
• Simon Hodson
• Thiago Herick de Sa
• Saroj Jayasinghe
• Gabriele Harrer Puchner
• Arnaud Banos
• Bengt Kayser
• Marianna Cavada
• Chris D Rogers
• Rachel Cooper
• Stéphane Luyet
• Nathalie Roebbel
• Jason Corburn
• Keiko Nakamura
• Stéphanie Pin
• Meelan Thondo
• Jean Simos

This comprehensive list of contributors underscores the multidisciplinary approach of the MOOC, bringing together experts from various fields to address the complex issues of urban health.

Lancaster University

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Overview:

Lancaster University is a public research university located in Lancaster, England. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK and is recognized for its high-quality teaching, research, and student experience.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Lancaster University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can enjoy a range of facilities, including a library, sports center, and arts venues. The university also has a strong sense of community, with a variety of student societies and clubs to join.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High Rankings and Reputation:

Lancaster University is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK, demonstrating its academic excellence.

Excellent Teaching and Learning:

The university is known for its high-quality teaching and learning, with a focus on student engagement and support.

Vibrant Student Life:

Lancaster University offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and arts events.

Beautiful Campus:

The university is situated on a beautiful campus with modern facilities and green spaces.

Strong Career Support:

Lancaster University provides excellent career support services to help students prepare for their future careers.

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Academic Programs:

Lancaster University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including: * Arts and Social Sciences * Health and Medicine * Management School * Science and Technology