Using Children's GIS Maps to Influence
Town Planning

Ulla Berglund
Department of Urban and Rural Development
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Uppsala, Sweden

Citation: Berglund, Ulla (2008). "Using Children's GIS Maps to Influence Town Planning." Children, Youth and Environments 18 (2): 110-132. Retrieved [date] from http://www.colorado.edu/journals/cye/

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Abstract

In a research project carried out in various neighborhoods in Stockholm, Sweden, we have developed a method for facilitating children’s influence on spatial planning. Our goal was to construct a vehicle for communication that could work in practice for both children and teachers as well as for planners. The method uses computerized GIS maps—a common tool in spatial planning. With little assistance, 10- to 12-year-old children map their routes and special places, mark activities and write comments. Teachers can also map routes and places used for education. The results have proved reliable and accessible by planners. Use of the mapping method within the school curriculum and in the planning process is broadly discussed in the paper.

Keywords: children, communication, children’s participation, GIS, planning, mapping