"The aim is for students to help solve genuine planning challenges", says course responsible Timos Karpouzoglou, Associate Professor at the Department of Thematic Studies and Technology and Social Change at Linköping University (LiU).
There is no doubt that this hands-on element, developed by LiU researchers, is popular among students.
"It gives us a taste of reality", says student Famela Jakobsson.
"In working life, you deal with places and situations more hands-on. So it is great that we get to practise that approach already", adds Michelle Lind, who is also studying to become an urban planner.
Research behind the course
A module called Living Lab is included in the first course of this master’s programme. It is based on research conducted at the Department of Thematic Studies.
Students collaborate with external actors and work on real urban development projects on site, this year in Norrköping. Everything from building with Lego to receiving feedback from a professional urban planner is part of the course.
Timos Karpouzoglou, together with course coordinator Giorgi Kankia, has worked closely with Norrköping Municipality to develop this year’s course.
"We have had a very good dialogue with Norrköping Municipality, which sees an opportunity to work more closely with the university. Their curiosity and willingness have strengthened the link to the course. That inspired us to create an entire Living Lab module focused on Norrköping", says Timos Karpouzoglou.
Making a difference
The project work kicked off, of course, in Norrköping. After an introduction, students stepped straight into the real world.
"I hope the municipality can use this in some way, because we have built the project with their needs and challenges in mind", says Timos Karpouzoglou.
The students share that hope.
"As students, we might bring new perspectives and ideas. If we can spark some thoughts, that feels great", says Michelle Lind.
Teamwork built with Lego
Teamwork is a key skill for future planners. To strengthen group dynamics, students used Lego to visualise their projects.
With three weeks to go before the final report was due, it was time for a pitch seminar. Each group had five minutes to present their ideas to a professional urban planner.
Per Haupt, urban development strategist at Norrköping Municipality, was there to listen and provide valuable feedback. The goal was for his input to help make the final reports stronger and more relevant to the city’s needs.
Although there were some nerves beforehand, the students were very pleased afterwards.
– It is really interesting for me as an international student to go deep into the Swedish context and hear his comments and thoughts. It was really a great possibility for me. It was one of the best parts of this course, says Miranda Gulbani.
Better prepared for working life
Per Haupt believes the students have chosen relevant questions and interesting locations. He thinks their projects can offer the municipality both ideas and insights.
"We always learn something by having an outside perspective on our issues. Students bring a fresh outlook and are often well-informed about new knowledge. Plus, they do research we might not always have time for", he says.
At the same time, he is there just as much for the students’ sake. He wants to help make the education as grounded in reality as possible.
"I believe it prepares students better for their future careers", says Per Haupt.
A fantastic feeling
Norrköping Municipality collaborates with LiU in both research and education.
"LiU is a major and important player. It is crucial for securing future competence, among other things", says Per Haupt.
And who knows, he may already have met a future colleague among the students.
Famela Jakobsson would love to work in Norrköping and make decisions that improve life for residents, especially children.
"That would be an amazing feeling", she says.
