Abstract:

Many faculties of architecture around the world are now in the process of modifying their curricula, introducing original teaching methods, hoping to improve the quality and effectiveness of education. These changes are necessitated by the development of technology, but also the decreasing number of hours dedicated to learning freehand drawing. A similar attempt was made at the Faculty of Architecture of the Cracow University of Technology. This paper discusses selected modifications to teaching methodology and curriculum, as well as the outcomes of this approach, based on a case study of Landscape Architecture students.

The topic of the class and innovative methods adopted were purposefully adjusted to ensure that students acquire practical skills in terms of design presentation and develop their creative thinking. Creating appropriate conditions during a drawing class fosters a more open approach to new possibilities and encourages students to be bold in their search for original solutions. This in turn gives them strong satisfaction stemming from the discovery of truths and gaining knowledge, perpetuating the stimulating effect. They learn how to ask themselves questions, and, over time, gain competence in a specific field.

Freehand drawing is very important. It ensures freedom at the initial stage of thought formation in the design process. When the drawing of an idea starts with the free development of its concept, without any schematic or practical constraints, we gain more openness. Experimentation in drawing raises the awareness of the topic being drawn and the consciousness of the author. Unfortunately, recently this free approach is being threatened by new technologies (computer software and the Internet). Meanwhile, reliance on precise guidelines or computer hints fosters a more technical approach to a design problem. At the same time, new tools in graphic design software are very useful for the purpose of synthesis and the transformation of forms enabling us to see them “differently”. The possibility to see important features, three-dimensionality and texture of forms are clear advantages brought about by the development of such software.

Nonetheless, there is no doubt that freehand drawing is the best way of recording one’s ideas - it is the language of creative thinking. Computer techniques, on the other hand, complement it perfectly. All the manners of design presentation are important to architects’ education. They are all useful, depending on a specific situation. It is important, however, to use them in an intentional and creative manner. The adopted methodology involves extracting positive aspects of modern technologies and taking advantage of them in teaching freehand drawing. Apart from freehand techniques, computer-aided techniques, as well as the so-called hybrid techniques combining the use of software and freehand drawing are used increasingly often.

An innovative approach to teaching at the Faculty of Architecture Cracow University of Technology involved also the invitation of twenty Visiting Professors from abroad. During lectures, classes and workshops for students, visiting processors shared their own experiences and suggested new approach to training architects.

Keywords:

Freehand drawing, drawing`s methodology, architect’s professional skills.