Place-Conscious Capacity-Building: A Systemic Model for The Revitalisation and Renewal of Rural Schools and Communities Through University-Based Regional Stewardship

Abstract

This paper sets forth a model of regional stewardship developed and implemented at a post-compulsory institution serving rural communities in central Appalachia, a region that is among the most impoverished in the United States. The model, termed place-conscious capacity-building, emphasises culturally-responsive methodologies and the strategic deployment of institutional resources to identify, cultivate, strengthen and support resident resources. The ultimate aim of the work is to build and enhance resident capacity to sustain and revitalise rural communities. The conceptual model is grounded in pedagogical constructs collectively described as place-based learning, but goes beyond classroom pedagogy to guide working and learning with stakeholders in multiple contexts to build and enhance capacities that serve the interests of public education and community economic development. Current projects and programmatic initiatives are presented in the paper as illustrations of the model and as evidence of desirable outcomes.