Dialogic Studio Critique Methods in Architecture Education - Part 2A

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Dialogic studio critique methods shift traditional architecture design studios from 'hierarchical, tutor-dominated feedback' (often called "desk crits" or juries) to collaborative, multi-voiced conversations. These approaches, inspired by Donald Schön's "reflection-in-action," Mikhail Bakhtin's polyphony, and Vygotsky's socio-constructivist pedagogy, emphasize mutual dialogue where students actively participate, question, and co-construct knowledge. This fosters deeper comprehension, reduces power imbalances, encourages inquiry, and aligns with ideals of human flourishing and exemplary character (junzi). Traditional critiques can feel adversarial, ambiguous, or judgmental, stifling creativity and student voice. Dialogic methods address this by prioritizing process-oriented, iterative feedback over summative assessment.

Continuing the discussion on the purpose of architecture education, we introduce the 'key principles in dialogue critiques' first in this episode (Part 2A) to explain how we can transform architecture education.

© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.

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