Development-oriented Architectural Education

Abstract

The present article is based primarily on experience gained at the Housing Re-search and Development Unit and the Department of Architecture, University of Nairobi. However, other documented experience in development-oriented archi-tecture education is also elicited.First of all, reference may be made to some of the more popular (mis)inter- pretation of the role of architecture in development. Recent changes in national development policies in African countries, and their orientation towards basic needs of the most deprived target groups are taken as a base for the redefinition of this role. Subsequently, focal areas of development and resulting areas of con- centration in architectural education will be mentioned, as well as suggestions concerning appropriate teaching/learning processes in these areas. By way of illustration, examples of recently developed teaching programmes will be pre-sented, one of which,’ is also documented in more extensive form. Some of the hindrances to their introduction in the conceptual stages and their practical imple-mentation are also mentioned. In conclusion, a few suggestions concerning necessary revisions of academic attitudes as well as potential areas of external support are made.