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Dr Craig Gurney

This course provides an introduction to gentrification and to the cultural impacts of housing displacement for people in cities and neighbourhoods across the world. Gentrification is a term which has been used to describe the process by which wealthier people move into an area leading to the displacement of poorer groups who are priced out of the area by increases in rents and housing prices. It is usually associated with physical improvements to the housing stock and to changes in local shops and services. Sometimes it is closely associated with the displacement of black people by white people. Gentrification is never neutral in its effects. Places change. They look and feel different and different people live there.

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This course provides an introduction to gentrification and to the cultural impacts of housing displacement for people in cities and neighbourhoods across the world. Gentrification is a term which has been used to describe the process by which wealthier people move into an area leading to the displacement of poorer groups who are priced out of the area by increases in rents and housing prices. It is usually associated with physical improvements to the housing stock and to changes in local shops and services. Sometimes it is closely associated with the displacement of black people by white people. Gentrification is never neutral in its effects. Places change. They look and feel different and different people live there.

There are winners and losers, incomers and those displaced, all of whom are caught up in a process by which the social status of an area can often change beyond recognition. Gentrification is both a social and a spatial process. It is not surprising therefore to find that most people who have written about gentrification are either sociologists or geographers.

In this course we will learn how the term gentrification originated and the way in which the term has developed since its first sighting in the 1960s. We will consider different theoretical explanations for processes of change and ask questions about who wins and loses. After acquiring theoretical and conceptual skills we will apply these to a series of international case studies to understand what gentrification might look like and feel like in different places. What changes? How do you measure change? What happens to the people displaced- where do they go to? Who are the newcomers? This course will give you insights which will help you better understand neighbourhood level changes; inspire you to learn more about the interaction of social and spatial changes and to think critically about the future of neighbourhoods with which you are familiar.

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What's inside

Syllabus

An introduction to gentrification
Welcome to the course. This week we will consider what the term gentrification means and how the meaning of the term has changed over time. We will identify key debates and key thinkers and ask you to critically reflect upon your own pre-conceptions about what gentrification means.
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Gentrification deconstructed
This week we will take the time to look at some of the key gentrification debates in a bit more detail. We will consider economic, social, and cultural dimensions to gentrification before concluding by looking at gentrification as an issue of race and social justice.
How do you research gentrification?
This week is an opportunity to find out about cutting-edge gentrification research. In a series of interviews conducted in January 2021, we learn about (i) the kind of research being undertaken and how it contributes to gentrification studies, (ii) how researchers define what gentrification means to them in their work; (iii) how the absence/presence of gentrification is measured and how case studies are selected; and (iv) what motivates researchers to work in this area.
Back home
In this final week of the course we will have a chance to take stock to reflect upon what you've learnt and the skills you've acquired. We will review some of the strategies that have emerged to resist gentrification and hear some expert advice on how to study gentrification. The week will conclude with some suggestions about the ways in which you might deploy you newly acquired knowledge and skills.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores gentrification, giving learners insights into the social and spatial changes occurring in neighborhoods
In-depth case studies from different parts of the world provide diverse perspectives on gentrification
Provides an overview of the origins and historical development of the term gentrification
Examines gentrification's effects on both incomers and those displaced, offering a comprehensive understanding of its impact
Taught by Dr. Craig Gurney, an expert in urban geography and gentrification
Course requires learners to have some background knowledge in sociology or geography

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Reviews summary

Engaging introduction to gentrification

Learners say this course is an engaging introduction to the social and cultural impacts of housing displacement and gentrification. Students say the excellent, knowledgeable instructor makes this course insightful and motivating. The well-structured course introduces learners to foundational theories and research that they can apply to their own research and activism.
The course is well-structured and organized.
"Excellently structured and and helpful in pointing out further resources for students as well as providing further reading."
The course is motivating and inspiring.
"This course has been a great inspiration for my thesis topic!"
"A fascinating experience that, despite the introductory approach, provokes us to read more and mobilize ourselves more."
The course is insightful and thought-provoking.
"it was really an inspiring course!"
"v​ery powerful, interesting and eye opening"
"Really interesting, introduced me to many theories and researchers which I hope to study further"
The instructor is excellent and knowledgeable.
"Excellent professor and lessons!"
"Very insightful.. Highly knowledgeable.."
"Dr. Craig Gurney provided excellent leadership in the way he put this course together and delivered it."
A certificate purchase is required to advance in the material.
"T​his course requires you to purchase a certificate to advance in the material."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Cultural impact of housing displacement gentrification with these activities:
Organize Course Materials
Enhance your learning experience by organizing course materials effectively, ensuring easy access and efficient review.
Show steps
  • Create a system for organizing your notes, assignments, and other course materials.
  • Review your materials regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Review Statistical Analysis Techniques
Refresh your skills in statistical analysis to enhance your ability to analyze gentrification data and draw meaningful conclusions.
Browse courses on Statistical Analysis
Show steps
  • Review your notes or textbooks on basic statistical analysis techniques.
  • Complete practice problems to test your understanding.
Learn GIS Mapping for Gentrification Analysis
Develop your skills in using GIS mapping to analyze gentrification data and gain insights into spatial patterns and trends.
Show steps
  • Find a tutorial on GIS mapping for beginners.
  • Follow the tutorial to learn the basics of GIS mapping.
  • Apply your skills to analyze gentrification data in your own community.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Join a Gentrification Study Group
Engage with peers to share perspectives, discuss concepts, and deepen your understanding of gentrification through collaborative learning.
Browse courses on Collaboration
Show steps
  • Find or form a study group with other students taking this course.
  • Meet regularly to discuss course materials, share insights, and work on projects together.
  • Provide feedback and support to each other.
Explore Gentrification Data
Develop your abilities to interpret data on gentrification and gain insights into the patterns and trends associated with it.
Browse courses on Data Analysis
Show steps
  • Find a credible source of gentrification data.
  • Follow a tutorial on how to analyze the data.
  • Identify patterns and trends in the data.
  • Write a report on your findings.
Create a Gentrification Case Study
Apply your understanding of gentrification to a specific case study, developing your research and analytical skills.
Browse courses on Case Study Analysis
Show steps
  • Choose a neighborhood that has experienced gentrification.
  • Interview residents, business owners, and other stakeholders.
  • Analyze data on housing prices, demographics, and other relevant factors.
  • Write a report that presents your findings and analysis.
Read influential text
Read an influential text to gain theoretical knowledge and perspectives on the complexities of gentrification.
Show steps
  • Acquire the book.
  • Read the book, taking notes on key concepts and arguments.
  • Summarize the book's main arguments and implications for understanding gentrification.
Develop a Gentrification Mitigation Plan
Apply your knowledge of gentrification to real-world scenarios by creating a plan to mitigate its negative impacts.
Browse courses on Policy Analysis
Show steps
  • Research best practices for gentrification mitigation.
  • Identify specific policies and strategies that could be implemented in your community.
  • Develop a detailed plan outlining these policies and strategies.
  • Present your plan to local policymakers or community organizations.

Career center

Learners who complete Cultural impact of housing displacement gentrification will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Housing Counselor
Housing Counselors advise individuals and families on housing issues, including homeownership, rental assistance, and foreclosure prevention. This course will be useful in providing Housing Counselors with a deeper understanding of the social and cultural impacts of housing displacement and gentrification, which are important factors to consider when providing housing counseling services.
Urban Planner
Urban Planners develop plans and policies for the use of land and buildings in cities and towns. This course may be useful for Urban Planners who want to gain a deeper understanding of gentrification and its impact on communities, as well as strategies for mitigating its negative effects.
Sociologist
Sociologists study human societies and social behavior, including the impact of social and economic factors on individuals and communities. This course may be useful for Sociologists who want to gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural impacts of housing displacement and gentrification.
Geographer
Geographers study the Earth's surface and human-environment interactions, including the impact of human activities on the environment. This course may be useful for Geographers who want to gain a deeper understanding of the spatial and environmental dimensions of gentrification, as well as strategies for mitigating its negative effects.
Community Organizer
Community Organizers work with communities to address issues and improve their quality of life. This course may be useful for Community Organizers who want to gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural impacts of housing displacement and gentrification, as well as strategies for resisting and mitigating its negative effects.
Journalist
Journalists report on local, national, and international events and issues, including the impact of social and economic factors on individuals and communities. This course may be useful for Journalists who want to gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural impacts of housing displacement and gentrification, as well as strategies for reporting on these issues in a way that is fair and accurate.
Social Worker
Social Workers help individuals, families, and communities address challenges and improve their well-being. This course may be useful for Social Workers who want to gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural impacts of housing displacement and gentrification, as well as strategies for supporting individuals and communities affected by these issues.
Historian
Historians study the past to understand the present and inform the future. This course may be useful for Historians who want to gain a deeper understanding of the history of gentrification and its impact on communities, as well as strategies for mitigating its negative effects.
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study human cultures and societies, including the impact of social and economic factors on individuals and communities. This course may be useful for Anthropologists who want to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural impacts of housing displacement and gentrification, as well as strategies for mitigating its negative effects.
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services, including the impact of economic factors on individuals and communities. This course may be useful for Economists who want to gain a deeper understanding of the economic dimensions of gentrification, as well as strategies for mitigating its negative effects.
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study politics and government, including the impact of political factors on individuals and communities. This course may be useful for Political Scientists who want to gain a deeper understanding of the political dimensions of gentrification, as well as strategies for mitigating its negative effects.
Lawyer
Lawyers advise clients on legal issues and represent them in court, including cases related to housing displacement and gentrification. This course may be useful for Lawyers who want to gain a deeper understanding of the legal dimensions of gentrification, as well as strategies for representing clients affected by these issues.
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analysts develop and evaluate public policies, including policies related to housing and community development. This course may be useful for Public Policy Analysts who want to gain a deeper understanding of the social and economic impacts of housing displacement and gentrification, as well as strategies for developing and implementing policies to mitigate its negative effects.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations, including organizations that work to address housing displacement and gentrification. This course may be useful for Nonprofit Managers who want to gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural impacts of housing displacement and gentrification, as well as strategies for developing and implementing programs to mitigate its negative effects.
Real Estate Agent
Real Estate Agents help clients buy, sell, and rent property, including property in gentrifying neighborhoods. This course may be useful for Real Estate Agents who want to gain a deeper understanding of the social and economic impacts of gentrification, as well as strategies for working with clients who are affected by these issues.

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Cultural impact of housing displacement gentrification.
Classic text on gentrification that provides a comprehensive overview of the topic. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the history, causes, and consequences of gentrification.
Provides a historical and theoretical overview of gentrification, and explores its impact on cities and communities around the world. It classic work in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in gentrification.
Provides a working-class perspective on gentrification. It is an important read for anyone who wants to understand the impact of gentrification on low-income communities.
Provides a historical account of how the US government has promoted and enforced racial segregation. It shows how government policies have created and maintained racial inequality in housing, education, and other areas.
Tells the stories of eight families who were evicted from their homes in Milwaukee. It provides a vivid and heartbreaking account of the human cost of gentrification.
Explores the relationship between gentrification and the creative class. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the role of the creative class in gentrification.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research on gentrification. It is an essential resource for anyone who wants to stay up-to-date on the latest thinking on this topic.
Provides a history of gentrification in New York City. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the long-term trends of gentrification in one of the most affected cities in the world.
Tells the story of gentrification in Brooklyn, New York. It provides a detailed account of the political and economic forces that have shaped the borough's transformation from a working-class neighborhood to a trendy destination for young professionals and artists.

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