UK College of Design Offers Nation's First Hybrid Field School in Historic Preservation

LEXINGTON, Ky. (March 23, 2017) — University of Kentucky College of Design is offering the country's first hybrid field school through its Department of Historic Preservation. HP 676: Field Methods in Heritage Conservation is designed to provide participants the opportunity for hands-on experience documenting and interpreting the geographical, architectural, sociocultural, economic and historical aspects of a select neighborhood. The methods and techniques used in the field school are applicable to a wide range of disciplines, and students from diverse educational backgrounds, including design, are encouraged to participate.

The course, which runs during Summer Session I, is limited to 20 participants. Students wishing to enroll must first apply to the Graduate School by April 8, 2017.

Field Methods in Heritage Conversation will be taught in three units. Unit 1, May 22-June 2, will be taught entirely online and include readings, content videos and assignments designed to prepare students for nine days of field work.

During unit 2, June 3-10, students will work alongside various renowned visiting instructors to employ both traditional and emerging technologies. Through 3D laser modeling, spatial mapping, ground penetrating radar and digital storytelling, students will process the intangible culture of their specific environment.

The final unit, June 12-30, requires students to collaborate with their classmates to complete a digital documentation report based on data collected in the field. As a direct result of their studies, students will learn to use historic preservation as a tool for social, environmental and economic justice.

The team of instructors who will assist students in the field includes: David Ames, professor emeritus of urban affairs and public policy from University of Delaware; Josh Ayoroa, co-founder of Ayoroa Simmons PLLC; and Ned Kaufman, founder of Kaufman Heritage Conservation. Additionally, several members of the UK community will lend their talents to the field school. These include Ned Crankshaw, professor in the Department of Landscape Architecture; Karen Hudson, professor in the Department of Historic Preservation; Kentucky Archaeological Survey Co-Director Kim McBride; as well as Rich Schein and Matthew Wilson, both professors in the Department of Geography.

For more information on housing, meals, tuition and scholarships for HP 676, contact Karen Hudson, visiting assistant professor of historic preservation, at karen.hudson@uky.edu.