Meaning-Making Through Community Constructs in Architectural Education

The history and theories of contemporary architecture course at United Arab Emirates University UAEU now involve community-based learning projects, allowing students to reflect on and apply their academic knowledge. The Repertory Grid Technique (RGT) is utilized to deepen students’ understanding of architectural concepts through direct interaction with their communities and built environments. Initially relying on standard teaching methods, the course has transformed over four semesters, informed by feedback from around 55 students each term. It has expanded from a five-stage to a six-stage process that fosters personal connections to architecture. This innovative method has particularly enhanced the learning outcomes among high-achieving students, who demonstrate significant advancements in analyzing and applying architectural theories to realworld contexts. These outcomes not only reflect a shift from mere memorization to practical application but also show the method’s effectiveness in fostering a robust understanding of architectural principles. The course’s success is assessed through video-recorded presentations, which reveal the depth of student engagement and the analytical quality of their projects. This pedagogical shift emphasizes critical thinking and practical skills, preparing students for future challenges in architectural design. As this model evolves, it offers a promising direction for curriculum development in architectural education worldwide, suggesting potential for broader application in various educational and cultural settings.