This paper provides students with the opportunity to undertake an in-depth study of an issue relating to environmental planning theory and/or practice. Students will develop a detailed understanding of both the research process and deeper knowledge of one or more dimensions of environmental planning.

The paper comprises two elements. The first of these is the process of identifying a suitable topic or focus for independent study. Students will be able to choose from a list of potential topics or, if convenors agree, develop their own area of focus. This will be undertaken in consultation with the student’s supervisor and will result in the preparation of a short introductory Research Brief which outlines the proposed topic, the rationale for its choice and identifies the core research questions to be addressed. The brief will provide a foundation for and direction to the study and will be supported by preliminary literature investigation.This first element of the paper must be successfully completed before the student may progress to the main task of writing a directed study of a maximum 5000 words.

The focus of the directed study must be some aspect of the theory and practice of environmental planning in New Zealand or internationally. Students will be encouraged to undertake theoretical challenges, for example relating to the application of current debates in planning theory to practical planning issues, or more practice based issues, for example critical evaluations of current planning policy at local, regional, national or international levels. In all cases, the expectation is that students will have a clear focus to their work represented through the identification of a clear research question or questions to be answered, and that they will draw upon an appropriate range of data, literature and research evidence to support their case.