GROUP TEACHING METHOD

Swot Analysis on the Method

Strengths:Varied InputEasier to integrate subjects (technology especially) with studio

Weakness: A lot of coordination (taxing on studio coordinator as counter-balance needed)Too much dependence on part-timers

Opportunity: Part-timers give extra expertise to group

Threats:Strong characters will dominate

Background

The learning process for an architect is based on 2 types – experiential learning and the “apprenticeship” approach. The two are almost the same. One is a concept and the other is the learning experience.

At UM’s Architecture Department, we have always engaged with the Group Teaching Method rather than the Atelier Method, whereby the latter depended on just one person to conduct a studio.

Studio Coordinator

The Studio Coordinator’s role is to manage both the students and the other studio masters.

This includes all facilitation and coordination work.

Studio Masters

All the studio masters (including the coordinator) have different expertises that contribute to the effective learning of the studio-base learning experience.

Expertise – Conceptual or Technical?

Portfolio Review

At the end of each semester, the Portfolio Review is conducted with the main objectives to evaluate (i) the studio programme and, (ii) the planning, programme design and facilitation of the studio programme.

Studio Curriculum

Learning Objectives must be related to the planning, design and facilitation of the studio programme which results in the Learning Outcomes. These LOs should be evaluated.

The Studio Curriculum should take its form and shape from the direction of the school. At the moment the success is based on the Group Teaching Method.

Studio Curriculum

The nature of Group Teaching Method rely heavily on the input of part-timers and different expertise in a well-coordinated manner.

Is there enough expertise?

Has the learning been brought to the level desired?

Has the input being instrumental in achieving the LOs.

Studio Manual

The introduction of the Studio Manual is to specify parameters (learning outcomes guidelines and programme guidelines) for any architecture lecture to enable him or her plan, design and facilitate a project within the Studio Curriculum.

Studio Manual

Project’s Name Semester / Year / Duration / Weightage Learning Outcomes / Objectives Compulsory Assignment Criteria Compulsory Reading Material Compulsory Assignment in conjunction

with other subjects Examples of Design Vehicles

Example of a Studio Manual’s Content

Project’s Name:High-rise / Complex Building

Semester 1; Year 4; Duration 8 weeks; Weightage 70%

Learning Outcomes / Objectives: High-tech and sustainable design; Use of case studies; High-rise / Advance complexity; Services and Structure Integration

Compulsory Assignment Criteria: Must be linked and conducted with BAES 4128 – Building Technology 1, with input of the lecturer involved in crits.

Compulsory Reading Material: Planning Office Design and New Office Design (Duffy, F.)

Compulsory Assignment in conjunction with other subjects: Building Technology 1 Assignment

Examples of Design Vehicles: High-rise Office Design; Theatre Complex; Performing Arts Complex; Commercial cum Office complex; Institutional Complex – Training centre (ie INTAN)

Matrix of Studio Learning Parameters

The Matrix will give a general view of the Studio Learning Parameters in one page.

The Manual’s content will inform on the Matrix.