Making Place: Design for Constructivist Learning

Ashley Tannebaum (Harvard University Graduate School of Design)

The aim of this presentation is to examine effective architectural strategies employed by designers of learning environments that work to support broad aims within the field of education. This presentation will consist of four main learning objectives: [1] Understanding the constructivist paradigm in education, [2] Examining and comparing different pedagogical frameworks rooted in constructivism (e.g. Head Start, Montessori, Reggio Emilia), [3] Identifying specific architectural design interventions that have been employed to support these frameworks, and [4] Drawing conclusions for interdisciplinary practice and dialogue among architects and between designers and educational leaders. Because the presentation seeks to blend together theories and practices within two major fields (architecture and education), the majority of the presentation will focus on the third and fourth objective, as they will provide the largest opportunity for attendees to be exposed to practical cases that could be influential in their own work. This presentation has the opportunity to serve as a catalyst for a critical discussion on how architects of learning environments can best establish their value through developing of a strong understanding of the needs of clients in the field of education as well as intentionally supporting these needs through design of the built environment. This project will aim both to reflect on designs that successfully support the learning environment and also look to the future for opportunities to include these strategies both in designs and in conversations among our peers and educators alike. 24