The confluence approach – a theoretical proposition for effective structuring of architecture studio pedagogy in e-learning mode

Purpose The Covid-19 crisis has inflicted a disruptive impact on the conventional institutional format of architecture studio pedagogy. As a result, there is a critical suddenness for an alternative approach to ensure continuity. The research pursues is to pursue a multidisciplinary study with a focus on the following domains: architecture, the science of learning and e-learning architecture. Inference from the study would become the basis for a theoretical proposition for improvement of the existing pedagogical framework. Moreover, the literature would add valuable insights to the knowledge base. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory research approach is used for this study. The inquiry-based approach enlightens on the role of the architect in society. Also, the nature of architectural design education that existed prior to the Covid-19 outbreak is examined. Further, the paper explores the impact of the paradigm shift from institutional mode to e-learning mode overnight. Purposefully multi-disciplinary studies are pursued to develop a broad understanding of the associated domains. This could effectively contribute to developing an effective pedagogical framework. This would facilitate the conduct of architecture studio discourse in a structured manner during the current scenario. Findings The confluence approach – a theoretical proposition for effective structuring of architecture studio pedagogy has evolved as part of the research. Further, the proposed virtual learning pyramid enlightens on the drive to continue on with augmentation of students existing creative acumen. Which is one of the universally sought-after goals of studio pedagogy even during times of uncertainties. Research limitations/implications Pedagogues would find the study very meaningful for the conduct of architecture design studio in e-learning mode. They would also acquire a broad understanding of factors to be considered. The research would pave way for future studies in this area from a multi-disciplinary perspective. Social implications The current Covid-19 crisis deters architecture studio discourse from being conducted in an accustomed institutional format. Therefore, it becomes important for institutions to ensure continuity of architectural education with the help of new measures. In concurrence, the research envisions an alternative approach: virtual design studio using e-learning mode. This would ensure continuity of architectural education even when the instructor and students are separated in either time or place. Originality/value The study presents a unique contribution to the limited literature available on architecture studio pedagogy during the e-learning scenario.

Next time, with empathy: revisiting the studio pedagogy for transitional housing for refugees

PurposeShowing empathy can be, at best, a tricky prospect; teaching empathy is downright daunting. The authors taught an interior design studio project that designed hypothetical transitional housing for refugees coming to Canada. As the project evolved, it became imperative that students needed to address tangible issues experienced by the refugee client, namely trauma, rootlessness and marginalization and authentically empathize with their client. Hence, instructors needed to accurately structure and facilitate this engagement. The purpose of this paper is to present a summary of the evolution of this studio project as a case study, the revision of the project's pedagogical goals and establishing a new set of design parameters that engage the “self” and the “other” through alternate modes of thinking and reasoning.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is centered on a reflective case study of the studio project and the student's work. The results of the reflection are contextualized within pedagogical framework that emphasize alternate forms of teaching and learning that promotes authentic empathetic engagement.FindingsThe summary of these reflections arises from organically questioning the nature of traditional design studio pedagogy. It proposes divergent approaches, such as “abductive reasoning”, posing the project as a “wicked problem” to encourages lateral explorations and connections.Originality/valueThis paper questions the value of prescriptive design process and guides student learning by providing an experimental toolkit that encourages alternative exploration, research and thinking.