Bridging gap between theory and practice in architectural education with learning by doing (experiential learning)

Architectural Education plays a very important role in shaping the profession. But in today’s world there is wide gap between what we learn and what we build because of this we are in serious problem. The teaching strategies for architecture currently prevailing is ‘Form, Function, Space’ based ‘Design Centric’ one that creates ‘elevations; ‘3D views’ and ‘walkthroughs’, amply supported by the ‘cut and paste’ options of the digital world. Currently, the systems and subjects prescribed are unfortunately being taught very superficially and in isolation. ‘Skills of hand’ has almost become obsolete, when we know for sure that the best buildings on the earth were all ‘hand-made’1. For these reasons, we find ourselves today searching for ways to repair the damage with the help of Bauhaus concept i.e learning by doing or experiential learning, in which passive learning – sitting at the desk listening to teacher is replaced by activity or project based learning involving the full participation of the student, was inspired by progressive education theory at primary level, and has since passed into all levels of education.2