STEAM approach in architectural education

Işık University, Architecture and Design Faculty, Architecture Department, İstanbul, Turkey

^* Corresponding author: elif.suyuk@isikun.edu.tr

Abstract

Architecture practice is reshaped by new technological developments such as virtual reality, augmented reality, 3D printing, computational design, robotics, etc. Future architects are expected to deliver spatial solutions, to understand changing living conditions and to discover the different future by responsing technological improvements. In architecture schools, students should explore and investigate design practice with different production methods, systems and materials by using various technologies in collaborations with interdisciplinary partners and industry. The study aims to understand the STEAM concept which is considered as a promising education approach and formulated; science, technology, engineering, math and then adds an ‘A’ for arts which represents the creative thinking and design approach. The STEAM concept and its place in the architectural education are discussed. The discipline of architecture is an intersection of technology, art and science. The architecture schools' curriculum reflects the interdisciplinary STEAM nature throughout the history. Virtual Reality (VR) is created through interdisciplinary technology and has the potential to prepare the students to future, to develop analytical and abstraction abilities.