Introducing Studio Oriented Learning Environment (Sole) in Upm Serdang: Accessing Student-Centered Learning (Scl) in the Architectural Studio

Abstract

This article reports the initial results of the exploratory research related to student-centered learning (SCL) in final year Architecture studio education in Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). SCL is defined as an approach to empower students in their own learning. Although studies on the adaptability of this concept in education has increased, there are few studies conducted for the benefits of architectural education from studio design perspective. In this article, we define SCL as an approach to increase student autonomy in learning curve especially in making decisions related to design subjects using a summative and formative approach. The objective of this article is to experiment the SOLE model and how it can move forward. The SOLE (Studio Oriented Learning Environment) model encompasses lecturing, sharing and peer review that is inspired by self-regulated theory. However, several problems and difficulties were identified namely, a lack of tutor input and problems in discussion dynamic in addition to resistance to peer assessment. This article suggests a number of improvements for future recommendations. The study will benefit educators in the architectural field in contributing to helping students to build on unique background knowledge and at the same time let the students generate learning opportunities and reconstruct knowledge dynamically in an open-ended learning environment to implement SCL in the studio module.

A Thematic Review on Student-Centred Learning in the Studio Education

“…2019), cooperative learning can be achieved only through good supervision and aptitude of the tutors to handle the situation in the studio. To support this, peeragogy can be one of the options to allow collaborative strategy among the peers in the studio through review and assessment (Zairul, 2018a). The value on knowledge retaining could be amplified in the design studio, as being proposed by Lane et al, (2015) through art and design subject.…”

“…Student-centred learning (SCL) has become a popular approach in today's higher learning education. It involves a collaborative synergy where teachers see the benefits to students, regarding increased enthusiasm, participation, and better preparation in the class project (Zairul, 2018b). Furthermore, in SCL student's take charge in their own learning and thus increased their autonomy (Wang & Zhang, 2019).…”

“…Supported by Elen, Clarebout, Léonard, & Lowyck, (2007) student's centred learning creates a powerful learning environment among student's in the classroom. Further, S.O.L.E module emphasis on leadership, communication, life-long learning, participation and teamwork (Zairul, 2018b). Two decades ago, Grabinger and Dunlap (1995) promoted the Rich Environments for Active Learning (REAL) model in which students involves in debates and higherlevel order of thinking and became critical of their own work.…”

Students’ Perception on the Role of Practitioner-Tutors in the Design Studio

“…In this new paradigm, student-centered learning has been widely applied (Kyoungjin & Davies, 2014;Zairul, 2018). The same thing can be seen in the learning process in studios, which applies the method through case-based learning (Cifuentes et al, 2009), problem-based learning and project-based learning (Widowati, Sawitri, & Krisnawati, 2015) and blended learning (Francis & Shannon, 2013).…”

“…One of the ways to support such learning process comes in the form of tutors to aid the studio masters (Zairul, 2018). The chosen tutors are sometimes students who double as studio master assistants, as well as practitioners who also work as tutors.…”