Innovations of architectural studies at Kaunas University of Technology

Abstract

During the last decade in the context of the desired results of architectural studies described in European directive 2013/55/EU the following problems and challenges in the field of learning quality at KTU could be observed: the lack of study process flexibility; the lack of students’ ability to integrate knowledge gained from different study subjects; the lack of analytical and communication skills, etc. Having in mind three basic elements, like systematicity, integrity, and flexibility, we are gradually improving architectural studies by trying to integrate related study subjects and put stronger emphasis on architectural design and urban planning study modules; to develop study results which are directly related with the precise skills necessary for architect; to seek for the new study methods, etc. We also state that even small improvements of the study methods can lead to the efficient solution of these problems. Our solutions are unusual and innovative in the context of East European traditional learning of architecture. The aim of the paper is to review the experience of solving the mentioned problems in KTU by improving study aims, results, methods, and curriculum of the first cycle study program.