TDG – Repositioning GIS: Integrating Geographic Information Systems Technology into Architecture Curriculum

Abstract

This grant focused primarily on developing new ways to integrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) into coursework in the Department of Architecture. In addition to proposing new modes of teaching digital media in the classroom, the courses and workshop developed in this project are designed as models for four-year undergraduate curriculum reform. Early research enabled the team to conduct a survey of international practice in GIS teaching and curriculum integration. The funding also led to the development of an important Pilot GIS Workshop that is part of a strategy for introducing digital media into existing coursework. The Workshop enabled the teaching team to observe the speed, fluency and interest level of the students through assignments, presentations and student feedback. The flexible structure of the GIS Workshop enables straightforward integration into the existing curriculum of the Architecture Faculty’s various departments and disciplines. The Workshop and a new course developed in parallel with this grant are meant to provide undergraduates from the Faculty of Architecture with the foundation knowledge and theoretical basis for studying and researching at postgraduate-level. It aims to equip architecture graduates with the necessary expertise to become more competitive in an increasingly global and information-technology intensive professional environment.

Deliverables