Between space, education and urban transformation

Abstract

The contribution analyses the experience of the design workshop promoted in Terni as part of the Interest project, highlighting how the convergence of participatory design, a transdisciplinary approach and experiential teaching can generate new urban regeneration practices. The initiative highlighted the university's active role not only as a producer of theoretical knowledge, but also as an educational and civic infrastructure capable of experimenting with collaborative operating models rooted in local contexts and oriented towards territorial transformation. The projects developed by the students creatively addressed issues such as slow mobility, social inclusion, biodiversity, narrative identity of places and accessibility, demonstrating how the design of public space can act as a device for activation, connection and care. The methodology adopted, inspired by the logic of design thinking and living labs, enabled the combination of direct observation, perspective vision, and light prototyping, offering effective responses to complex urban contexts. The experience also reinforced the educational value of design as a cultural and political practice, helping to develop participants' awareness of the ethical and civic responsibilities of designers. In conclusion, the workshop is proposed as a replicable model of cooperation between universities, communities and local administrations, capable of activating processes of cultural and social innovation and promoting new forms of active citizenship.