The short report of the walking workshops is already available – our partners are already reading it.
It presents the findings and insights from a co-creation phase of a research project called Mapping Values, which aims to explore the concept of a “good city” and improve urban governance by understanding how people perceive and value different places within their immediate urban environment. The research project is funded by the British Academy and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and involves an interdisciplinary team of researchers from various universities.
The co-creation phase described in the report focuses on engaging with community members in Kilburn, London, to explore their past and present experiences, and feelings about different places in the neighbourhood. The main goal of this phase is to co-create a mental model-map of the neighbourhood that reflects the participants’ experiences and values.
The report provides an overview of the research project, its objectives, and the research team involved. It explains the concept of participatory design and its origins in involving users in the design process of computer-based systems. The report also explains the methods used in the participatory design phase, including walking workshops and co-creation workshops. It describes the activities and discussions that took place during these workshops and presents the key findings and insights that emerged from the data analysis.
The report highlights the importance of social connection, diversity, green spaces, and the local community in shaping people’s perceptions of a “good city.” It also identifies challenges and risks, such as the loss of spaces for youth and potential developments that could reduce green space and affect the viability of local businesses and community centres. The report emphasises the value of human presence and community interaction in creating a sense of belonging and social cohesion.
Overall, the report provides a detailed account of the co-creation phase of the research project and offers valuable insights into the participants’ experiences and values related to the Kilburn neighbourhood. It demonstrates the benefits of engaging community members in the research process and highlights the importance of considering their perspectives in urban governance and planning.
Download it here
Glossary of terms:
1. Participatory design: A design approach that involves users or stakeholders in the design process of a product, system, or environment.
2. Mental model-map: A visual representation or map that reflects the participants’ experiences and values of a specific place or neighbourhood.
3. Thematic analysis: A method of analysing qualitative data to identify themes or patterns of meaning.
4. Green spaces: Natural spaces with vegetation, such as parks and gardens.
5. Social cohesion: The extent to which individuals in a community or society are connected and have a sense of belonging and solidarity.
6. Urban governance: The way cities are governed and the processes through which decisions are made about urban development and management.
Mirian Calvo