E-Learning in Architecture: Professional and Lifelong Learning Prospects

Abstract

E-learning in architectural and spatially related fields can be examined from two differentperspectives, each having quite specific and complex implications. By discussing e-learningin architecture we inspect the scope of e-learning tools and practices within the architecturaldomain, the visual nature of education and professional training of architects, and the stateof the art of e-learning implementations, together with their practicality and limitations.While these are the first areas that come to mind when considering e-learning in relation toarchitecture, there is another also very relevant and sometimes overlooked aspect: that ofe-learning about architecture. In the latter, we introduce not only the professional but alsothe broader, non-expert public into the process of acting within, and shaping of, their spatialenvironments. This aspect raises burning questions regarding the communication abilities ofthe actors involved, holding their attention, ingraining sustainable principles and getting themessages across the invisible, but perennial expert / non-expert divide. E-learning in andabout architecture not only offers opportunities for both sides to learn but also to get to knoweach other better.The chapter first introduces and highlights the common aspects of e-learning within thearchitectural domain, followed by e-learning for experts, through what we have namede-learning in architecture, describing specifics and presenting an example of one of thee-learning initiatives. It is followed by a subchapter describing aspects of e-learning aboutarchitecture and sustainable principles of space interventions for broader audience of nonexpertsinvolved in the lifelong learning processes (LLP). Similarly, the subchapter concludeswith an example of an e-learning tool in action and the reflections on the research presented.The chapter concludes with discussions of ‘lessons learned’ and ranking of new opportunitiesin professional and lifelong e-learning prospects in architecture and its related fields.