Project Description

As a whole, this course introduces undergraduate students to the theory and methods of the geospatial approaches to urban problems like gentrification through urban storytelling. Using Detour (a walking tour app) we examined Oakland to understand the current issues and dynamics that characterize the city. Based on the fiction stories in Oakland Noir, groups of 3-4 students each chose a narrative that’s paired with a particular area of Oakland. They all had opportunities to not only meet the author of their story, but also to interview people in the neighborhoods, and record their stories. As urban storytellers, the students learn that stories are place-based. An essential aspect of urban storytelling is understanding the importance of being both an observer and a participant. With this in mind, the walking tour is the most dynamic form of presenting this information.