| This study investigates how the study of architecture in the visual arts classroom enhances student awareness of their immediate environment. An eight part unit on architecture was taught to high school students in three Basic Art classes. The unit was divided into the following sections: (a) a pre-instruction questionnaire establishing the student's baseline knowledge of architecture; (b) learning about architecture activities including the home, the school, the community, and the world beyond; (c) applying knowledge of architecture through the creation of a new building and a scale model: and (d) a post-unit reflection. Students completed questionnaires and wrote reflective comments for each phase of the unit. The results indicate the majority of the students had a basic knowledge of architecture at the study's beginning. By the conclusion of the project, students reported a greater awareness of the architecture around them and a new appreciation for architecture and its impact on themselves and the world. This study revealed students can benefit when architecture is taught in the visual arts classroom. |
