alexander bothos

Discussion Comment

the seduction of technology as a design tool

As a design instructor it has been a challenge on how to balance the use and the extent of technology in t teaching early designer the essentials of the the design process. I have found that if technology is introduced too early in the process students become very easily "seduced" by the graphic or "pretty pictures" that can be produced quickly and without much depth from critical thinking. I have found greater success by limiting their use of technology during the early phases of the project and make them think through the process with sketches, hand drawings, writings, etc... once… >>>

alexander bothos

Discussion Comment

Assessing Creative Assignments

Being a design instructor has many challenges when trying to assess a student's progress the class. Traditional tests are not applicable to this type of learning experience as it is all projects based that have be assessed on both quantitative and qualitative values. Quantitative values are easier to assess such as completion of requirements, clarity of presentation, neatness of graphics, etc.. Qualitative values are harder to assess as this can be seen as subjective judgement of a student's creative expression in their project. I have have found that producing a graphic matrix of all theses criteria and using a scale… >>>

alexander bothos

Discussion Comment

First day introductions and ice breaking exercise

I have found first day is always an anxious time for both instructors and students. I always try to get the students to loosen up by introducing myself a bit and my history as a design instructor and why I became an architect. Then I ask them to introduce themselves and ask why do they want to study architecture? Many students have common backgrounds or motive and stories on how they got to the class and this helps establish a common ground between all of us as we are all on the same journey and I am their guide more… >>>

alexander bothos

Discussion Comment

Music in the design studio

I found that most students began listening to their ipods and other personal music players and were disengaging from the dialogue that makes studio collaboration so critical in their development. To remedy this I asked that they come to consensus to have music throughout the studio so they can still hear the comments made by myself and others. The students rotate the type of music through a lottery system they developed themselves, it has been most effective in restoring a collaborative atmosphere to the class.

alexander bothos

Discussion Comment

Guest Critics in Class

I find in design oriented classes bringing in guest critics to look at and discuss each student work to be a great benefit. It gives the student a chance to dialogue with respected colleagues and more importantly get different point of view regarding their design work. The guest's input can be assessed and implemented if the student believes it is beneficial to their project, or it can filed away for further consideration. Guest critics also help students become more comfortable with presenting in front of others, which they will be doing for the rest of their academic and professional careers.