The world is becoming increasingly digitally interconnected and this instrumentation, data collection, interconnection, storage, and analysis can provide the capacity to radically transform how cities monitor, manage and enhance their environmental quality and liveability. This module will provide an introduction to what big data is and how it can contribute to the smarter, more sustainable management of cities. The module will begin by discussing the concepts of big data and the big data revolution, and an overview of the ways in which data can be captured, stored and analysed. This will be followed by a consideration of how big data can be used within cities to optimise: their use of physical and digital infrastructures; their sustainable use of natural resources; citizen service delivery; and citizen engagement, participation and urban governance. Students will also be introduced to some of the challenges presented by big data, both the technological challenges and the ethical and social challenges associated with collecting, storing and using big data. Throughout the module case studies of big data in action will be used to illustrate the value, challenges and limitations of big data in the smarter, more sustainable management of cities.

1 A portfolio of weekly tasks which builds towards production of the report assignment (1500 word equivalent) 40% (learning outcomes: 1, 2, 5)

2 The portfolio will inform and be submitted alongside a 2000 word report demonstrating how big data can be used to address a specific urban sustainability issue in a city the student is familiar with 60% (Learning outcomes 1 – 5)

Additional Assessment Details:
The report will evaluate the big data and smart cities literature and secondary data with relation to a specific city.

The report will demonstrate a critical appreciation of how big data sets can be used to inform metropolitan policy and decision making

Formative Assessment:
Portfolio contributions from weekly task will be formatively discussed in tutorial workshops, some elements will be student-led and conducted in small groups in order to foster team-working skills, discuss initial ideas and collect data together.

The module will run over 12 weeks. This will normally include 4 weeks for you to complete the assessments to be graded. Over this period you will work through weekly self-instructional material (a mixture of text and video based materials and web resources) provided via the VLE. These materials will provide a structured programme of specific activities and tasks which you will be asked to complete. This will involve reading and critically engaging with key texts, papers and other information sources. This work will mainly be undertaken on an individual basis, but at regular points throughout the module you will be expected to interact and share material, ideas and thoughts with the tutors and other students. It is expected that students allocate a minimum of 15 hours to engage and interact with their tutors and peers on the module.

Campbell, T (2012) Beyond Smart Cities: How Cities Network, Learn and Innovate. Earthscan, Oxford. (ebook edition)

Davenport, T.H. (2014) Big Data @ Work: Dispelling Myths, Uncovering opportunities. Harvard Business Review Press, Harvard. (ebook edition)

Mayer-Schonberger, V. & Cukier, K. (2013) Big Data a Revolution that will Transform how we Live, Work and Think. John Murray (ebook edition)

Townsend, A.M. (2013) Smart Cities: Big Data: Civic Hackers. and the Quest for a New Utopia. W. W. Norton & Company, New York. (ebook edition)

Access to the VLE used for delivering the module, access to e-library resources provided by Staffordshire University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.