Asian Journal of Environment and Disaster Management 2011 3 3

doi: 10.3850/S1793924011000939

Methods and Techniques for Promoting a Multidisciplinary Environmental Research Project using GIS

Akiyuki Kawasaki¹, Satoshi Yoshida^2,a and Satoru Sadohara^{2,b 1}International Center for Urban Safety Engineering, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4–6–1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153–8505, Japan. akiyuki@iis.u-tokyo.ac.jp ²Graduate School of Urban Innovation, Yokohama National University, 79–7 Tokiwada-kui, Hodogaya, Yokohama 240–8501, Japan. ^asyoshida@ynu.ac.jp ^bsadohara@ynu.ac.jp

ABSTRACT

This study demonstrates collaborative methodologies and techniques using GIS (Geographic Information System) for multidisciplinary environmental research by self-evaluating trial-and-error practices in a multidisciplinary research and education program at Yokohama National University (YNU). It describes changes of the activation level of GIS use throughout the overall and individual research projects in the program. This study analyzes the trigger factors by conducting interviews of participating researchers. As a conclusion, it proposes new ideas to promote a multidisciplinary environmental research project that makes use of GIS. Experiences and lessons learned from this program are useful for designing and implementing new multidisciplinary environmental projects beyond YNU and Japan.

Keywords: Multidisciplinary, Collaboration, Ecosystem management, Database and system building, Capacity building, Coordination.

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