Campus Archaeology is on Foursquare!

The Campus Archaeology Program has been considering using location based mobile software for a while now. One of our interns, Jamie Henry, has been working on a research project discussing the possible applications for this platform for public engagement. Our director, Lynne Goldstein, and Campus Archaeologist, Terry Brock, have both been using Foursquare since January. Today, Campus Archaeology has decided to take the plunge.

Why?

Because archaeology is inherently spatial and is located all over MSU’s campus. Yet, it’s not visible on the current landscape. We want you to learn about your campus, what spaces mean, when they were built, and what they looked like before. We want you to be able to experience the campus as it was in the 19th century. Foursquare gives us an opportunity to not only share this information about historical spaces on campus, but to do it in a fun and engaging way. We will be marking historic spots on campus, such as our first dormitory at Saints’ Rest, and loading them with tips so you can learn about the space. You may decide to check in at the library, only to learn that the fountain right in front of it sits on top of the old Physics building, or that the library itself sits in a space once occupied by one of the earlier Wells Halls. At some point, you may even be able to take your family and friends on a little tour of campus, using our campus tips as a guide!

Using Foursquare will provide another opportunity for us to engage with you about the spaces around you. It will allow us to create a virtual historic landscape for you to explore and ask questions about, making the campus space unique and exciting.

Author: Terry Brock