Conceptualization by visual and verbal representations: An experience in an architectural design studio

Abstract

In current educational practices within the discipline of architecture, the systematic use of conceptualization within the design process has not yet been extensively developed and applied. Though utilizing concepts within the design process has been discussed hitherto by educators and scholars, the conventional education system in architectural design may prevent its proper application in the studio process. Furthermore, because conceptualization describes an activity that has peculiarly visual and verbal dimensions, the coordinated use of drawing and language as the representation systems also refers to the main character of the design process. In these respects, by offering a systematic alternative for conceptualization within the design process, this study presents a new educational pattern. The study was implemented during the sixth semester of the architectural design studio and includes an examination of the relationships and functions of drawing and language as the very media of conceptualization within the discipline of architecture.