| Urban bias has long been considered to be a problem in Third World development. Two interpretations of the urban bias theory are considered to explain urban bias and how it is exhibited in traditional rural planning methodology. Despite arguments that the nature of urban bias precludes its existence in developed nations, it has been found in various relationships between urban and rural regions. This thesis shows that an urban bias exists in planning in developed nations, including Canada.;Planning has traditionally had an urban focus through policy and training which has led to the development of urban bias in the approach to rural environments. These biases are illustrated through the work of rural planning theorists from Great Britain, the United States and Canada. Traditionally listed as 'problems in rural planning', these biases are found to exist in many real issues which are common among these three countries. Some of the effects of urban bias on rural planning and rural communities are used to illustrate why it is not an acceptable element of rural planning.;So to further understand the issues of and solutions for urban bias, two research methods, Rapid Rural Appraisal and Participatory Rural Appraisal are explained. These methods are then considered in relation to the traditional techniques of rural planning. In an effort to understand how rural planning can be more 'rurally' conscious, suggestions are offered for alternative planning techniques. These specific techniques were chosen since they addressed issues and problems which have been identified with urban bias.;Improving rural planning education is another way to approach the effects of urban bias. Proposals are made for increasing the awareness of urban bias in planning programs and for teaching residents of rural communities more about the process and value of planning. |
