Speakers
Description
As geography enters a transitional era shaped by Big Data, AI, and expanding public access to real-time information, universities are also calling for more pragmatic, community-connected research. This moment presents a prime opportunity to place geography at the center of engaged scholarship by developing approaches that combine data-driven analysis with community knowledge. While Big Data dominates, small-scale projects require timely, appropriately scaled information and citizen insights that cannot be found in large datasets.
This roundtable explores strategies for fostering trust, addressing knowledge gaps, and sustaining inclusive partnerships during the often chaotic early stages of engagement. Drawing on citizen-led revitalization efforts in Swissvale, Pennsylvania, we will discuss pathways for integrating GIS tools, applied student learning, and local voices into long-term collaborations. Participants are invited to share experiences and co-develop best practices for strengthening geography’s role at the intersection of data, community, and societal needs though a two-part roundtalble session.
Part 1 - Identification of need through university and community partnerships to clarify and elevate the role of geography
