Theories, Approaches, and Metrics in Smart, Learning, and Future Cities

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to explore understandings of urban life and the ambient in smart, learning, and future cities in relation to urban theories, approaches, and metrics. As such, a review of the research literature is conducted in the context of smart cities and regions pertaining to urban theories, methodologies, and metrics. Issues, controversies, and problems emerging from the literature review are highlighted, contributing to formulation of a conceptual framework for theories, approaches, and metrics in relation to urban life and the ambient in smart cities. Using an exploratory case study approach combined with an explanatory correlational design, variables pertaining to the exploration are identified, and the nature of their relationship is assessed. Through the lens of urban theories, approaches, and metrics, urban life and the ambient is explored in smart cities while informing directions for future research and practice.