EXPLORING EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING PRACTICES AND THE USE OF CRAFT-BASED LEARNING IN ARCHITECTURAL PEDAGOGY FROM AN EDUCATORS' PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The integration of Indian crafts into architectural design education serves as a multifaceted approach, enriching students' understanding of India's heritage while fostering an appreciation for the cultural and environmental significance of craft traditions. This paper delves into the pivotal role of crafts in Indian lifestyle, emphasizing their intrinsic connection to the sense of place and space. By infusing this perspective into the curriculum, architectural education can cultivate a deeper sense of belonging and rootedness among students. Craft-based learning facilitates hands-on experience and direct engagement with building materials, nurturing experiential learning and iterative design processes. The paper highlights the detrimental impact of the declining appreciation for craft in pedagogy on architecture students' ability to generate original design ideas. By reinstating craft as a fundamental component of architectural education, educators can foster creativity, innovation, and a profound understanding of the built environment. The research methodology employs a comprehensive approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative analysis, including insights from faculty perspectives gathered through questionnaire surveys. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on transforming architectural education, aiming to establish a framework where craft integration is evident across the curriculum. By intertwining Indian crafts with architectural design education, this research aims to cultivate a holistic approach that not only imparts practical skills but also fosters a deeper connection to India's cultural heritage and environmental consciousness.