Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/being-smart-about-cycling-futures
In an era where sustainable and inclusive urban mobility is paramount, understanding the trajectory of cycling is crucial. The Coursera course, ‘Being Smart about Cycling Futures,’ offers a thought-provoking exploration into this very topic. It doesn’t provide easy answers or a singular vision, but rather equips learners with the critical thinking skills to analyze and shape the future of cycling in our cities.
The course begins by challenging the notion of a single, inevitable cycling future. Instead, it introduces the concept of ‘velotopias’ – visions where cycling is the dominant mode of transport – and explores the diverse innovations aiming to make cycling easier, safer, and more accessible. Week 1 sets the stage by highlighting the contested nature of these futures, emphasizing that different visions prioritize different values and perspectives on urban life and mobility.
As the course progresses, it delves into the integration of cycling within broader mobility systems. Week 2 questions whether the goal of innovation should always be mode shift and considers how existing cycling practices are often overlooked. The module also touches upon the successful integration of bikes and trains, a concept well-developed in the Netherlands.
Reinventing the bicycle and its associated infrastructure is the focus of Week 3 and 4. We learn how innovations, from e-bikes to smart infrastructure and mobile apps, are not just technological advancements but are deeply shaped by their context and, in turn, shape future possibilities. The course critically examines concepts like ‘cycling highways’ and agile working methods used in cities like Amsterdam, urging learners to consider the diverse needs of all users sharing urban spaces.
A particularly vital aspect of the course is its exploration of inclusivity in Week 5. ‘Cycling Futures for All?’ tackles the social dimensions, asking who cycles, who is excluded, and what can be done to foster greater accessibility. It highlights how policies and infrastructure can inadvertently marginalize certain groups, underscoring the context-dependent nature of these challenges.
The culmination of the course in Week 6 is a practical exercise where learners envision their own cycling futures. This encourages reflection on the limitations of our collective imagination regarding mobility and how to push those boundaries.
Recommendation: ‘Being Smart about Cycling Futures’ is an excellent course for urban planners, policymakers, cycling advocates, students, and anyone interested in the future of sustainable urban living. It fosters a nuanced understanding, moving beyond simplistic solutions to encourage critical engagement with the complex realities of cycling innovation and its impact on our cities. If you’re looking to develop a sophisticated perspective on urban mobility, this course is highly recommended.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/being-smart-about-cycling-futures