Conservation and Renewal of Traditional Island Villages Based on SWOT Analysis

Professor Introduction

Victor | Ph.D. in  Architecture

Home Institute：University College London

Project Description

China, a developing country with both land and maritime territories, boasts abundant marine resources and extensive maritime strategic interests. Traditional villages are the soul of rural areas, with their diverse landscapes reflecting the unique cultural genes of each region. The landscape expressions of traditional villages result from the continuous coordination between human activities and regional systems. In the context of preserving and developing traditional island villages, it is essential to address the issues arising from the landscape expressions of cultural genes. This involves enhancing the restoration and protection of historically and culturally significant villages, traditional architectural villages, and natural ecological villages.

From historical, contemporary, and developmental perspectives, managing the relationship between village conservation and utilization is crucial. Preserving historical memory is necessary not only for protecting and inheriting excellent traditional culture but also for highlighting the local characteristics of beautiful island areas and improving the living conditions of fishermen and farmers. This research will employ the SWOT analysis method, examining the current state of geographic location, resource environment, ecosystem, and human history. By drawing on successful management experiences from islands such as Hawaii and the Maldives, the project will design and research the planning and development of islands, propose specific measures, and analyze priority development directions.

Project Keywords

Project Outline

Part 1 : Introduction to Traditional Island Villages
• Definition and significance of traditional island villages
• The role of traditional villages in preserving cultural heritage
• Challenges and opportunities in conserving island villages

Part 2: Traditional Village Landscape and Cultural Expression
• Analysis of the cultural genes influencing village landscapes
• Relationship between human activities and regional systems in shaping village landscapes
• Case studies of diverse traditional village landscapes

Part 3:  SWOT Analysis of Traditional Island Villages
• Introduction to SWOT analysis methodology
• Strengths: Unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, historical significance
• Weaknesses: Environmental vulnerabilities, economic constraints, infrastructural limitations
• Opportunities: Tourism development, cultural preservation projects, sustainable practices
• Threats: Climate change, urbanization, loss of traditional practices

Part 4:  Case Studies of Successful Island Management
• Examination of Hawaii and Maldives’ island management strategies
• Analysis of sustainable practices and conservation efforts
• Lessons learned and best practices applicable to Chinese island villages

Part 5:  Geographic and Environmental Assessment
• Geographic location and its impact on village development
• Environmental resources and ecosystem analysis
• Assessment of current environmental challenges and potential solutions

Part 6:  Human History and Cultural Heritage
• Historical overview of traditional island villages
• Cultural heritage and its role in village identity
• Preservation of historical landmarks and traditional practices

Part 7:  Planning and Development Strategies
• Designing sustainable development plans for island villages
• Integrating cultural heritage into modern planning
• Balancing conservation with economic development

Part 8: Specific Measures for Conservation and Renewal
• Restoration and protection of traditional architecture
• Development of eco-friendly tourism and local crafts
• Community involvement and capacity building

Part 9: Priority Development Directions
• Identifying key areas for immediate action
• Long-term strategies for sustainable development
• Policy recommendations and stakeholder engagement

Part 10: Data Analysis and Reporting
• Collection and analysis of relevant data using SWOT methodology
• Interpretation of findings and implications for village conservation
• Preparation of comprehensive reports and presentations

Part 11: Conclusion and Future Research Directions
• Summarizing key findings and their importance
• Identifying research limitations and suggesting future research directions
• Proposing practical applications of research findings in various fields

Part 12: Reporting and Presentation
• Writing a comprehensive research report with clear structure, concise language, and accurate data presentation
• Preparing and delivering an engaging oral presentation of the research background, methods, results, and conclusions

Suitable for

High School Students:  
•  Interested in architecture, urban planning, cultural heritage, and environmental conservation
• Basic knowledge of architecture, sociology, and environmental studies

University Students:
• Majoring in architecture, urban planning, sociology, or related fields, seeking to deepen understanding and engage in research
• Familiar with basic architectural design and evaluation methods, with some experience in data analysis and research methodologies