Cognitive temporal mapping: The three steps method in urban planning

The aim of this paper is to present the three steps method of using cognitive temporal (CT) maps as a support to an individual's participation in the planning process. The term cognitive temporal maps refers to the process of drawing and comparing maps of past, present and future desired environments as an approach to assist the planning process. The three steps method which includes in-depth interviews, drawing CT maps, and a dialogue between the researcher/planner and the interviewee/resident is presented as a method which helps to expose the local spatial knowledge necessary for effective planning.