Teaching light - Constructing knowledge across multiple dimensions

Judy Theodorson (1)

1 School of Design and Construction

Light is a potent condition of architectural ambiance; its many dimensions defy classification as art, science, or function. This paper proposes advancing the teaching of light by utilizing a pedagogical framework grounded in constructivist learning and cognitive flexibility theory. The framework presents multiple representations of light, enabling the learner to develop flexibility in "criss-crossing" its various dimensions while acquiring authentic knowledge for application to unique design problems. The overarching goal is to empower designers with self-constructed knowledge of light's aesthetic, experiential, physical and functional aspects in order to harness the full potential of light as architectural ambiance.

Mots clés: light; lighting; architecture; pedagogy; cognitive flexibility

Domaines: Architecture, aménagement de l'espace; Sociologie

Judy Theodorson. Teaching light - Constructing knowledge across multiple dimensions. Ambiances in action / Ambiances en acte(s) - International Congress on Ambiances, Montreal 2012, Sep 2012, Montreal, Canada. pp.595-600. ⟨halshs-00745040⟩