DrArthur Parkinson

Arthur has coordinated and delivered lecture/seminar and studio-based modules at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, to students registered to UCD's MRUP, MSc Urban Design & Planning, and BSc Planning, Environment & Public Policy programmes. These modules are principally focused on urban design and placemaking more broadly, and draw on his related research interests (see under 'Research' tab, above). Arthur also designed and coordinated an innovative new design thesis module in 2016, affording students on the MSc Urban Design & Planning programme the opportunity to deploy design as a core element of their research, and fostering a deeper understanding of the relationship between theory, research, and evidence-based design. Arthur continues to deliver foundational teaching in research design for the design thesis.

Arthur was programme director of the MSc Urban Design & Planning programme in UCD from its inception in 2015 (successfully obtaining 'specialist' accreditation from the Royal Town Planning Institute in spring 2016) until September 2024. He also secured 'combined' (spatial and specialist) accreditation with the Royal town Planning Institute (RTPI) for a new, 1-year MSc Planning, Development & Urban Design programme. This was the first time that a planning programme of one year's duration had offered 'combined' RTPI accreditation in the Republic of Ireland (previously all such programmes were of two years' duration).

Arthur’s approach to teaching seeks to make the learning process as engaging as possible, to prompt critical thinking, and to foster students' development as independent practitioners and researchers. Students are encouraged to develop a stake in - and ownership of - their learning process, as collaborators in their education, and not just as spectators. Students are also given the opportunity to develop their understanding of new concepts and approaches through reflection and collaborative application in lecture and studio settings.

Arthur welcomes applications from potential PhD candidates interested in research related to themes including the following: conservation-planning; built heritage policy and practice; heritage values; the cultural politics of heritage; and (urban) design in historic contexts.