Geography | Spatial Data Science | Political Economy

Visiting Assistant Professor | Bard College

Data Analytics & Environmental Studies

Ongoing Research Projects

  • Collaborative mixed-method survey research and participatory data analysis

    • GIS and geospatial data analysis

    • Participatory Action Research (PAR)

    • Survey research, complex design (probability and non-probability survey) to preference action, community member participation for hard-to-reach groups.

  • Spatial econometric analysis of eviction

  • Interview and ethnography on tenant organizing and housing justice social movements

Bio

Jordan Ayala is an educator and multidisciplinary researcher whose work integrates data science, geography, planning, and economics. He is a Visiting Assistant Professor of Data Analytics and Environmental Studies at Bard College. Previously, he served as a Visiting Instructor for Geographic Information Systems at Bard College and Research Associate with the Open Society University Network (OSUN) Economic Democracy Initiative. His latest research efforts include collaborative mixed-method survey research and participatory data analysis with communities in Kansas City, MO. Working with resident researchers across eight languages, these research projects have generated substantial public and private investment to address environmental issues, community development, and housing security including a community land trust, efforts to address absentee home ownership, solar panel installation for low-income households, and community solutions to property violations and minor home repair, which received national attention. His research and teaching interests include Geographic Information Science, spatial analysis, political economy, participatory action research, environmental and urban studies, and Latinx studies.

Education

University of Missouri | Kansas City, Missouri, USA

PhD Candidate in Economics & GeoSciences | Dec 2024