Architectural
education
learn in architecture
In January of 2015, I’ve started my first year of degree in architecture, I’m so called “married” with architecture. One thing that I couldn’t deny is studying architecture isn’t an easy thing. It’s not purely theory or practical course, but combination of both. Architecture is an art science of designing building and structures. It can be ranging from scale of built environment to furniture so architecture plays a very important role in our life. What I can say is, studying architecture is like learning everything.
After two years of ups and downs adventure, I’m currently in the 4th semester. Throughout almost 600 solid days of university life, I’ve learnt a lot in architecture school. Imagine a human with no idea how’s a building being constructed until now, I’m glad that I’ve made a right decision to study architecture. In the first year, when I was still a fresh as new-born, I have learn basic courses such as building technology, design communication and history of architecture. These are the foundation of the whole course. Till now, we’re exposed to more advance subject such as computer aided design, building science and building services. We think that we had learn a lot within this two years but in fact, these are just the surface of an iceberg , it’s never enough for us.
In my opinion, I wish that I can learn more practical stuff in architecture school, for example how to build a shelter, toilet, even a house. It’s ashamed that an architecture student who can draw well but have no idea how to build a building. Not to say that we must know how to build a commercial building or residential building, but at least we should trained to be able to construct simple structure which is able to functional. Have you ever cast a concrete block? Have you ever construct a timber roof by using proper timber connection? Maybe you know how to answer during exam, but I’m pretty sure that we must need hands-on practice so we can really build it where I think this is what current education lack of.
Designing without any proper construction knowledge in mind is just wasting time because what you designed might not be constructible. That’s why I feel that learning technical skill is important for us. In last few months, I have participate in the 28th Annual Architecture Workshop, for installation competition. Here come the stage where we need to produce an installation which is constructed by using proper connection and able to sustain throughout the workshop. To be honest, I have never involve myself in constructing stuff like this. That’s where I found what skill I’m lacking of. During the preparation, that’s the chance I can use tools such as saw, cutting machine, drill and so on. I feel so lucky to have such a chance to do installation. Although the result is not satisfied, but I have learnt what I have never learn before.
In conclusion, I wish that our school can integrate academic programme with some practical or technical stuff. Maybe we can introduce one hands-on subject every semester. It’s good to train student who has knowledge in both theoretical and technical. We also want to be able to draw and built in future at the same time right? I have learnt that I still have a lot to learn so never stop learning.
