Spatial Analysis and Context Mapping for Urban Planning

Every successful urban planning or community development project begins with a deep understanding of its physical and social environment. This text-based course guides you through the foundational concepts of context mapping, enabling you to gather, analyze, and synthesize spatial data to inform planning decisions. What you'll learn: - Understand the core principles of urban context mapping and spatial analysis. - Identify and extract open-source geographic and demographic data for planning projects. - Analyze environmental risks, infrastructure access, and social vulnerability factors. - Apply modern participatory mapping concepts to capture community-driven insights. - Practice structuring spatial narratives that clearly communicate planning challenges and opportunities. You will start with the fundamental terminology of urban planning and spatial analysis, then move through data collection, thematic mapping strategies, and modern equity-focused planning frameworks. Designed for beginners in urban planning, geography, public policy, or community advocacy, this course requires no prior GIS or mapping experience. Start reading today to build your foundational skills in urban spatial analysis.