Speakers
Description
In the context of China’s rural revitalization strategy, rural governance faces significant challenges, including insufficient public participation, lack of professional expertise, and a limited variety of participation methods. Additionally, rural areas suffer from depopulation as young people migrate to cities or abroad, further exacerbating the disconnect between rural communities and their physical environments. This study addresses these challenges by utilizing Participatory Geographic Information Systems (PPGIS) and participatory design methods to enhance public participation in developing rural public spaces, focusing on Yanghou Village, Yushan Town, Jian'ou City.
Data on villagers' use and needs for public spaces were gathered through PPGIS, employing a combination of time-segmented observations across various public spaces, targeted surveys for different stakeholder groups—including villagers, local administrators, and visitors—and semi-structured interviews. This data was then analyzed spatially using GIS technology, allowing the team to map and assess the frequency and pattern of public space usage, as well as factors influencing these activities, such as resident distribution, existing facilities, and accessibility. Through this participatory process, potential spaces for revitalization within the village were identified.
The PPGIS framework then guided the decision-making process, beginning with site selection and evaluation. Local stakeholders played an active role in evaluating different locations based on their needs and preferences, ensuring that the chosen site was aligned with community priorities. The evaluation was followed by a collaborative design phase, where the community’s input directly informed the space’s functionality and aesthetics. In this case, the selected site underwent revitalization with the construction of a bamboo pavilion, designed not only for shade and rest but also to serve as a dynamic space for social interaction and community events.
Post-implementation evaluations, including direct observations, follow-up interviews, and periodic surveys, demonstrated the success of this participatory approach. The collaborative process—spanning site selection, evaluation, and design—resulted in a marked increase in both the frequency of space usage and villagers’ satisfaction with these areas. The revitalized areas have become vital centers for leisure, environmental education, and community events, strengthening local identity and fostering a sense of communal spirit.
The study further emphasized the importance of emotional attachment to rural spaces, particularly in Fujian’s clan-based culture, where family ties and ancestral connections are strong. The participatory design process fostered a sense of ownership among villagers, especially the younger generation. However, challenges remain, such as the lack of child-friendly facilities and spatial accessibility issues, which hinder full inclusivity.
In conclusion, the integration of PPGIS provides a more precise and participatory methodology for designing rural public spaces, allowing for a better understanding of and response to the needs of more inclusive, equitable, and resilient rural communities. This study not only supports China’s rural revitalization efforts but also offers valuable insights into the sustainable development and governance of rural public spaces in the future.
| Keywords | PPGIS; Rural Revitalization; Rural Governance; Public spaces |
|---|---|
| Best Congress Paper Award | Yes |
