Building Knowledge
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Date
2019
Authors
Correa, David
Meyboom, AnnaLisa
Krieg, Oliver David
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
Material characteristic and fabrication methodologies informing design processes are a growing focus of
research and pedagogy. Bio-mimetics, morphogenetics or material computation theories have mostly
been used as integrative tools within their teaching methods. The authors of this paper have observed that
these pedagogical models are most successful when they are coupled with a practical understanding of the
tools and processes that are engaged in architectural production. Without this exchange, a growing
disconnect emerges between the concept and the crafted artifact, leading to unfounded speculative
projections rather than true applied understanding. As such, experimentation with tools and materials is
essential for students to build knowledge on the constraints and possibilities that exist within a material
or manufacturing technology. This learning process is not meant to be singular – applying to one material
and one fabrication process – but rather a process that is learned and then can further be applied to other
design problems. However, the research and development processes are usually too extensive for
students to gain in-depth understanding of the methodology - a learning experience that is beyond the
scope of a single architecture studio.
Through a set of intensive fabrication workshops, carried out by the authors, a targeted pedagogical model
is aimed at knowledge creation within a compressed framework. Engaging participants to a particular
point in the building process - that point at which a design is materialized through fabrication processes -
provides a unique platform to shift from exploratory conceptualization to technically informed hands-on
implementation.
Description
13 pages