***New Section. Video coming soon*** 

Course Description:

Cities are living, systems—complex networks where technology, people, and nature collide to create the pulse of modern life. In this class, you will dive into the heart of how cities work and discover how emerging tech like AI, data, and sensors are transforming urban life. From “self-driving” water systems to smart highways, you’ll move from understanding the fundamentals of city life to designing cutting-edge solutions that enhance sustainability, public services, and civic engagement.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Cities Work: Explore the systems that keep cities running, from water and energy to transportation and public services.
• How Tech Works: Learn how AI, sensors, and data can solve urban challenges, from reducing energy use to improving citizen engagement. No coding or hardware experience required!
• Design with a Purpose: Use user experience (UX) research to uncover real-world citizen needs and design technology solutions that make a difference.
• Real examples: Learn about the cities and companies at the forefront of the smart city revolution.

Term Project:

Propose a smart city solution addressing a real-world urban challenge—whether it’s boosting sustainability, enhancing safety, or promoting citizen engagement. Design a plan, from concept to impact assessment, ensuring your solution is both technologically savvy and impactful.

Labs:  

Exposure to smart lights, smart plants, smart rain collection, smart traffic, etc., using wireless sensors, Arduinos, IoT, and sending data to the Internet.  Analyze data basic using no-code tools, basic coding, and more advanced python scripting; use AI tools and agents, including LLMs, and prompt engineering and build apps with vibe coding