CRP 274

PLANNING ANALYSIS AND TECHNIQUES II

3 CREDITS

Instructor: Dr. Francis Owusu
Office: 585 College of Design
Phone: 515-294-7769
Email address: fowusu@iastate.edu

COURSE DESCRIPTION
The objective of this course is to familiarize the student with a variety of data analysis techniques for planning practitioners. The goal is not to develop expertise in a particular method, but rather to provide a conceptual understanding and hands on experience with a range of methods. The course is divided into three parts. The first part covers population analysis and forecasting techniques relevant for small geographic areas. Part two covers techniques for regional and local economic analysis such as shift-share analysis, the economic base model, location quotient analysis and input-output analysis. The final part introduces students to various project evaluation methods including benefit-cost analysis.

The lectures will focus on concepts, assumptions, and interpretation of results. The labs and assignments will provide an opportunity to apply the methods learned to data from Iowa. The labs will be supervised by the TA and will emphasize the use of the computer as a tool for data analysis and display using spreadsheet software packages. A working knowledge of fundamental Windows concepts and operations (e.g., drive/directory structure, directory/file creation and manipulation) and Microsoft Excel is required. Some opportunity to acquire such knowledge will occur in early labs.