Analytical Methods (ABPL90135)

Planners shape cities and regions by managing land use, development, infrastructure and services. In order to do this effectively, it is essential that planners have the capacity to gather and analyse data relevant to planning circumstances, even when the information available to them is incomplete. Further, it is critical that planners are able to design appropriate planning inquiries, and critique the processes designed by others. This subject provides students with an introduction to the essential process of research undertaken by planners, including the consideration of professional ethics.

Through completion of the subject, students will be equipped with the ability to: gather and analyse both primary and secondary data; understand and apply essential principles of both qualitative and quantitative methods; and identify the context for their appropriate use. Students will be trained to critically assess any shortcomings of data sources and methods, and consider the impact this has on the conclusions drawn. Overall, the subject facilitates the development of skills and knowledge regarding the use, collection, analysis, and representation of information. This will be utilized in future subjects and practice as planners.