[Traditional Research Paper] Engaging Students in Hands-On Experiences through Neighborhood Revitalization Projects
- Conference
- Location
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Portland, Oregon
- Publication Date
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June 23, 2024
- Start Date
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June 23, 2024
- End Date
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July 12, 2024
- Conference Session
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Engineering Empowered Communities: Place-Based Community Engaged Learning
- Tagged Division
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Community Engagement Division (COMMENG)
- Tagged Topic
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Diversity
- Permanent URL
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https://peer.asee.org/46412
Paper Authors
Paula Alvarez Pino University of Alabama, Birmingham
Paula Alvarez Pino is the Associate Director of the Sustainable Smart Cities Research Center at University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB). Paula is in charge of monitoring the progress of research, outreach and training activities in the center, as well as to set short and long-term goals to ensure the continuous progress of the SSCRC. Paula collaborates with the City of Birmingham as liaison in several projects related to the built environment and to improving the overall quality of life of the communities. Paula plans international research experience programs for undergraduate and graduate students in collaboration with international partners. She has helped organize and develop international workshops in the field of sustainability and smart cities. Paula has also developed outreach programs that educate the youth about the principles of sustainability. Paula received a Bachelors and Master’s of Science in Civil Engineering from UAB.
Fouad H. Fouad University of Alabama, Birmingham
Dr. Fouad H. Fouad, Ph.D., P.E., is Professor and Chairman Emeritus of the Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering Department at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
Andrew J. Sullivan University of Alabama, Birmingham
Mona N Fouad
Abstract
Community engagement in engineering education provides a key opportunity for students to gain valuable hands-on experience while enriching the live of local residents and promoting a positive impact. Since 2020, our institution has been working on a transformative project with the overarching goal of revitalizing neighborhoods adjacent to the university.
The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance the built environment in order to promote active and healthy lifestyles and improve the quality of life of the residents. Enhancements include sidewalk improvements, addition of new crosswalks, street trees, upgraded street lighting, and green spaces improvements among others. To attain this objective, we have established strong relationships with our city government, community organizations, and local residents, to ensure that the project aligns with the community needs and goals.
Student involvement has been a key focus of this initiative. By actively participating in neighborhood revitalization projects, students gain real-world experience, develop practical skills, and build meaningful relationships with the community and with professionals and organizations involved in the project. Furthermore, students have the opportunity to see the tangible results of their efforts, motivating them to pursue careers in civil engineering with a commitment to make a positive impact on society.
This paper describes the framework developed for neighborhood revitalization projects, emphasizing the community engagement initiatives and student involvement efforts. Additionally, we discuss the methodology developed to assess the success of this program and how we plan to integrate community based projects into the engineering curriculum. The ultimate goal is for this initiative to serve as a model and inspiration for universities and communities alike, highlighting the transformative power of collaboration between higher education institutions, industry, and community partners to drive meaningful improvements in our communities, fostering growth, innovation, and social well-being.
Alvarez Pino, P., & Fouad, F. H., & Sullivan, A. J., & Fouad, M. N. (2024, June), [Traditional Research Paper] Engaging Students in Hands-On Experiences through Neighborhood Revitalization Projects Paper presented at 2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Portland, Oregon. https://peer.asee.org/46412
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