Identification of rural settlement development types in the farming-pastoral zone based on social network analysis

Abstract

[Objective] The classification of rural settlement development types is crucial for comprehensive and effective village planning. By examining the characteristics of rural resident travel behaviors, this study aimed to categorize rural settlement development types and subsequently propose tailored strategies for rural revitalization. This approach can significantly contribute to the sustainable and holistic development of rural areas. [Methods] This study applied social network analysis to examine the spatial linkage patterns of rural resident travel behaviors in Kekeyiligeng (Ke Town) of Wuchuan County. It also incorporated expert scoring to obtain the weights of various travel frequencies. Subsequently, it used kernel density estimation to study the spatial distribution characteristics of rural settlements within the research area. By measuring the intensity and degree of centrality of these rural settlements, the study was able to identify their development types using the general matrix model. Finally, this study proposed paths of rural revitalization tailored to the specific development types, to foster sustainable growth and development in the region. [Results] The research results show that: (1) Among the daily travel activities of Ke Town residents, socializing comprises the largest share (52%), followed by shopping (26%) and studying (13%), while medical care and work account for similar proportions (4%), and tourism has the smallest share (1%). (2) The connection strength between settlements within Ke Town forms a network structure emanating from the central node represented by the central town. Key factors influencing connection strength include transportation infrastructure, resource endowment, and population size. Settlements with high degree centrality are typically located along transportation routes or in close proximity to the central town. (3) Ke Town’s rural settlements are categorized into five types: suburban integration (20), characteristic protection (9), agglomeration promotion (44), general persistence (49), and relocation and merge (58). The study proposed distinct rural revitalization approaches tailored to each type, taking regional conditions into account. Additionally, it provided guidance for the relocation of settlements falling under the relocation and merge category, based on their intra-village connection strength. [Conclusion] The success of rural revitalization initiatives heavily relies on tailoring interventions to the specific needs and dynamics of each rural settlement type. Accurately identifying the spatial connection intensity among different residential areas is essential for precise localization and the effective implementation of targeted policies aimed at promoting rural revitalization. This study underscores the importance of comprehensively understanding the diverse rural settlement types, providing valuable insights into formulating specific strategies for rural revitalization that are firmly rooted in the distinctive characteristics of each settlement category.

Keywords

• |rural revitalization|social network analysis|type identification|farming-pastoral zone|ke town of wuchuan county