Architecture A Tool for Active Learning

Abstract

This dissertation questions the premises of Architecture to play its key role in generating effective learning environment. It is not about good or bad, right or wrong; it is about directing the attention towards the basic requirements of learning centers. Architecture has the capability to generate an effective environment for students by providing interesting/interactive spaces that can be explored, well organized, spatially configured, programmatically systematized & experiential. It is one of the six aspects (curriculum, facilities, management, tutors, parent contribution and built environment) that make a good school. School is a place to learn. A place; where education is not restricted to the books in four walls of class room but spread across to the whole school. Either it's a corridor or a bench for sitting or the ground for playing; the learning activity continues and makes the whole school a laboratory for experiment. Entrance, circulation, geometry, Form, Ergonomics, spatial character, programmatic layouts and natural features combines to form a tool kit for experimentation to perform. Thus, the question ultimately arises through this introspection is to what extent architecture can play its part to serve the process of learning? Can it answer the challenges faced by govt. school design by its innovative approach? And lastly; is architecture successful in serving for the desired function?