Community-Based Learning in GIS Education: A high-impact case example of neighborhood revitalization in Kenosha, WI
Topics: Geographic Information Science and Systems
, Education
, Urban and Regional Planning
Keywords: GIS education, pedagogy
Session Type: Virtual Paper Abstract
Day: Monday
Session Start / End Time: 2/28/2022 02:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/28/2022 03:20 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 50
Authors:
Caitlin L Curtis, University of Wisconsin-Parkside
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
Abstract
Community-based learning focuses on engagement outside the classroom to foster community benefit, high-impact learning, and a sense of civic responsibility in students. This approach emphasizes student reflection upon their engaged experience with community partners to highlight their role in complex community issues and the multiple perspectives at play. When paired with geospatial learning, this community-based pedagogy is highly effective to demonstrate to students how their work behind the computer screen can impact people in the real world. In Fall 2019, our GIS and Communities course was paired with a local neighborhood association to help with their goal of neighborhood revitalization. Their aim was to synthesize a map of properties neglected by landlords and serving as loci for criminal and nuisance activity. Throughout the project, we reflected deeply on the potential ramifications of our mapping work with regard to race, power structure, gentrification and displacement. We collaborated not only to split tasks for our GIS analysis, but also to develop sensitive solutions to the neighborhood’s issues considering all community members. The final class presentation was attended by community members and local officials, and the final report generated by the class resulted in meetings between the neighborhood association and the mayor’s team, district attorney, and deputy chief of police. Students accordingly gained a greater sense of ownership of their GIS analysis and the reflective ability to do GIS in an ethically sensitive way. Thus, integrating GIS education with impactful, community-based applications can strengthen student learning and engagement in both arenas.
Community-Based Learning in GIS Education: A high-impact case example of neighborhood revitalization in Kenosha, WI
Category
Virtual Paper Abstract
Description
This abstract is part of a session. Click here to view the session.
| Slides