UPL - Other Research Topics

Qatar University College of Engineering Department of Architecture and Urban Planning-DAUP

Urban Planning Legislation MUPD 601 Research Topics

Other Research Topics

Research Topics Urban sprawl in Doha - What is urban sprawl?

- How is experienced in Doha?

- This study investigates the impact of urban sprawl in Doha during the past 50 years.

- Trace the development of Doha city.

- Analyze the pattern of expansion and whether it qualifies as urban sprawl or not - Study the characteristics of urban sprawl in Doha

Research Topics The Impact of Globalization on Image of the City - What is globalization - How is it affecting the production of urban environment in Doha - Discuss examples of projects that represent globalization in Doha

Research Topics Globalization and Mega-projects - Collect information of Mega-projects in Doha (i.e. sports facilities for Asian Olympics, WC2022 facilities, The pearl, ‌ ) - Collect updated information from client, investor, architect, ect.

- Discuss architectural and urban design features and their relationship to globalization.

- Discuss impact on Qatar’s future urbanization.

Research Topics Planning of New Developments to the North of Doha - Collect information of new developments and future projects and planning schemes on North of Doha.

- Take pictures of examples of different types of urbanization North of Qatar.

- Discuss positive and negative impact of these new developments.

- Present examples of current and future projects.

Research Topics Use of Traditional Architecture Elements in Contemporary Architecture - What are the architecture elements of traditional Qatari architecture.

- Collect examples of different uses of traditional architectural elements in buildings.

- Discuss positive and negative uses of these elements.

- Interview several practicing architects and discuss with them their point of view.

- Take picture of several examples to use as an illustration of your argument.

Research Topics The new Qatar Master Plan - Collect information on history of Qatar Master planning - Collect information on the new master plan - Contact Urban Planning Authority - Interview planners, engineers and Master Planning team.

- Focus on key features of the master plan.

- Discuss your point of view regarding the positive and aspects of the new master plan

Research Topics 21st Century Globalization Impact - Define and discuss “Globalization� (What is Globalization?

How does it impact cities and architecture indifferent parts of the world?)

- Discuss development of Qatar city architecture and urbanization during the first decade of the 21st century.

- Collect examples of projects (constructed or under construction) during the first decade of the 21st century that illustrate the impact of Globalization.

- Discuss your opinion regarding the positive and negative impact of Globalization.

Research Topics Impact of Economic Resources on Planning and Architeture - Discuss the economic progress of Qatar: pre-oil, oil, gas, ‌ - Collect information and pictures of the impact of architecture of different periods in Qatar.

- Identify significant impact of economy on architecture in Qatar.

Research Topics Urban Public Spaces - Identify and survey examples of public urban spaces in Doha city.

- Analyze their use and development.

- Discuss their vitality and significance.

- Propose changes and revitalization policies.

Research Topics Historical Buildings Conditions - Survey current conditions of historical buildings in Qatar.

- Collect information on Preservation efforts and laws.

- Compare with efforts in other Gulf countries.

Research Topics Housing provision for Qataris - Collect information on housing provision for Qataris since the discovery of oil.

- Collect information of Housing Authority on current and future projects.

- Discuss pros and cons and effectiveness of housing provision plans.

- Collect pictures of housing typologies.

Research Topics The Shopping Malls as a New Urbanization Forms - Collect information on the development of shopping malls in Qatar.

- Contemporary luxurious shopping malls in Qatar: City Center, Villagio, Landmark, ‌ - Future shopping mall projects - The shopping mall as a new urban form.

- Discuss the impact of shopping malls on the urban experience in Qatar.

Research Topics Hybridity - Define the term “Hybridity”?

- Illustrate how is “Hybridity” found in Qatar?

- Collect examples and projects that illustrate this phenomenon.

- Discuss its positive and negative aspects.

Research Topics The Heritage Village project - Collect information on the Heritage Village project.

- Visit and photograph the current progress of the project execution.

- Interview developer and consulting office.

- Compare with similar projects in Gulf region.

- Discuss positive and negative aspects of Heritage Village planning and design features.

Research Topics Public Transportation Projects in Qatar - Collect information regarding the Qatar public transportation projects.

- Discuss impact of future public transportation projects on future urbanization in Qatar.

Research Topics Qatar Events Timeline - Collect information on the development of Qatar urbanization and architecture.

- Develop a detailed timeline that illustrates relationship between architecture and urbanism and economic, political, social and cultural aspects.

Research Topics Housing of the Expatriates - Collect information regarding population distribution in Qatar.

- Develop a map to illustrate percentages of Qatari and expatriates in different areas in Qatar.

- Interview sample of expatriates (5) and discuss their living experience in Qatar.

- Distribute a short questionnaire (30) and analyze feedback.

- Take pictures of different expatriates urban environments.

Research Topics Informal Urbanization - Define “Informal Urbanization� typologies?

- Survey forms of informal urbanization in Qatar: (i.e. informal market places, outdoor vendors, formation of gathering places in abandoned sites, informal housing and spontaneous soccer games.)

- Develop a typology of informal urbanization in Qatar.

- Photos of examples of informal urbanization in Qatar.

Research Topics Glocalization : Globalization/Localization - What does Glocalization mean? (The term 'glocalization', which first started appearing among academic circles during the late 1980s, combines the words 'globalization' and 'localization'. It is used to describe a product or service that is developed and distributed globally, but is also fashioned to accommodate the user or consumer in a local market. This means that the product or service may be tailored to conform with local laws, customs or consumer preferences. Products or services that are effectively "glocalized" are, by definition, going to be of much greater interest to the end user. "Glocalization" is an historical process whereby localities develop direct economic and cultural relationships to the global system through information technologies, bypassing and subverting traditional power hierarchies like national governments and markets. ‌ The creation of products or services intended for the global market, but customized to suit the local culture.)

Research Topics Glocalization : Globalization/Localization - How is it “experienced” and “expressed” in urbanization and architecture in different parts of the world?

- How is it “experienced” and “expressed” in urbanization and architecture in Qatar?

- Discuss the negative and positive aspects of “glocalization”.

- Use architecture and urbanization examples to illustrate your discussion.

Research Topics Gated Communities - Define Gated Communities? (A gated community is a form of residential community or housing estate containing strictly controlled entrances for pedestrians, bicycles, and automobiles, and sometimes characterised by a closed perimeter of walls and fences.)

- Survey different typologies of gated communities around the world.

- Discuss differences and commonalities between gated communities in Qatar.

- Study examples of gated communities in Qatar.

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