Classroom in the City

October 19, 2009

On October 13, New York City Council Member, Gale A. Brewer was the guest lecturer for the Urban Studies senior thesis seminar, "New York City Field Research." Brewer, who chairs the Committee on Technology in Government, shared her expertise on the seminar’s theme, “The Digital City,” which explores how the information revolution has altered urban political, economic, and social processes.

Brewer explained how the use of technology in government is mediated through entrenched political institutions. While technology can increase public access to information and improve the delivery of services, it requires the coordination of existing departments and systems to be effectively utilized. She stressed the importance of municipal connectivity in advocating legislation, oversight, and funding for digital initiatives. Brewer also discussed her efforts at narrowing the digital divide, or the unequal access to sophisticated technology. Identifying it as her “biggest priority,” she described her plan to expand computer services and training programs for public school students in libraries and community centers.

After the lecture, each student was asked to describe her thesis proposal. Drawing from her seven years experience representing the Upper West Side, Brewer provided potential contacts and resources to further students’ research.

—Takako Kono '10

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