Microcomputing in British Planning Education

The findings of a survey of British planning schools carried out during spring 1986 suggest that the number of microcomputers available in British planning schools has increased by at least two-and-a-half times over an eighteen-month period. However, compulsory courses on computer applications and information management in these schools still tend to be linked with quantitative methods teaching and few opportunities are provided for more advanced training in information management in most schools. Some hands-on training in connection with basic microcomputer software application packages is provided in most schools, but the extent of coverage varies considerably between schools. The findings of this survey generally support the concern expressed by previous commentators about the shortage of suitably experienced staff in planning schools and the extent to which this is evident in the time lag that is occurring before current developments in planning practice are fully incorporated into course curricula. In a postscript to the paper the main findings are updated to November 1987.