The Evolution of an Urban Design Curriculum in Landscape Architecture and a Community-Based Design Center

Abstract

This study investigates the evolution of the urban design curriculum at UMass Amherst from 2008 to 2013 that was catalyzed through the genesis of a community-based  design center in Springfield, MA. Four key areas in the context of community service learning as engaged scholarship are assessed. The findings illustrate 1) a positive evolution of teaching quality as the studios engaged community service learning in urban contexts and 2) measurable physical and planning impacts at the municipal and non-profit level.