Architectural strategies in the education of the sciences

Abstract

RESEARCH QUESTIONS: How can architecture be designed to be more engaging in educating the fields of science and technology?

How can this be done through architecture expression avoiding a repository response?

ABSTRACT:

This research project is an investigation into how the architecture of educational facilities, primarily the science centre, can contribute towards enhancing the learning experience. It is a response to existing scientific educational facilities that lack the strength in generating the key components in education such as interaction and inquiry. It is specifically aimed at reinvigorating the science centre experience by showcasing scientific and technological advances in order to reintroduce the principals of STEM in a more exciting, eventful and explanatory way to all age groups. Science is a complex subject that calls for various teaching methods, one of the most effective, as research shows is a hands-on, interactive and engaging approach. Vital to this concept are the out of school science learning environments that provide a captivating science experience such as museums and science centres.

The research project firstly reviews existing science museums globally and concludes that the external image of the building should convey a nature of its purpose rather than acting as a shed for its exhibits. Project aims include the incorporation and celebration of the sciences and technologies to inform and educate the community in a public educational and recreational facility.

A site was selected in Auckland’s city center that was strategically located linking the ‘University of Auckland’ and the ‘War Memorial Museum’. Through analysis of the site the project seeks to respond with a series of buildings interconnected with public routes that are accessible at all times. Each building will provide a unique experience related to its own scientific field. The buildings will address the key scientific fields of ecology, astronomy, natural history, marine science and geology using architecture. A key interest of my research includes how disruptive technologies may reduce resource consumption and improve quality of life for future urban societies. The project will seek to integrate these innovative technologies that are likely to be essential in the future.