Program Overview
Shanghai represents one of the world’s most advanced smart city implementations. This module explores how AI and IoT technologies are integrated into urban infrastructure to improve quality of life, sustainability, and economic efficiency.
Students will visit smart city control centers, IoT deployment sites, and urban planning institutions to understand the technical, social, and policy dimensions of smart city development.
Key Learning Outcomes
- Understand the technical architecture of smart city systems
- Analyze how AI optimizes urban services (traffic, energy, waste)
- Evaluate the social and privacy implications of urban data collection
- Explore the relationship between technology and urban planning
- Develop frameworks for smart city project evaluation
Industry Partners
- Shanghai Smart City Development Institute: Technical architecture overview
- IoT Deployment Companies: Site visits to sensor networks
- Urban Planning Bureaus: Policy and planning perspectives
- Tech Companies: AI applications in urban management
Daily Itinerary Sample
Day 1-2: Foundation
- Introduction to smart city concepts and technologies
- Technical architecture of IoT and AI systems
- Case studies of smart city implementations
Day 3-4: Field Visits
- Smart city control center tours
- IoT sensor network demonstrations
- Urban planning bureau meetings
Day 5-6: Analysis
- Data analytics workshops
- Privacy and ethics discussions
- Student project development
Day 7: Synthesis
- Final presentations
- Industry feedback
- Networking events
Assessment
Students complete a case study analyzing a specific smart city application, evaluating technical implementation, social impact, and policy considerations.
Prerequisites
Background in engineering, urban planning, or data science preferred. Interest in technology and cities required.
