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conference contribution
posted on 2023-05-23, 10:00 authored by Richard BurnhamRichard Burnham, Holmstrom, K
The Learning-by-Making program at the University of Tasmania, School of Architecture & Design is based on principles of experiential learning, community engagement and the importance of ‘making’ in design education. The program has integrated a ‘homegrown’ digital fabrication tool into its design/build repertoire. Many opportunities for creative engagement with educational and training institutions have emerged. The projects illustrated in the paper – including an exhibition stand, an outdoor learning space, and several iterations of a transportable micro-dwelling – have been fabricated using a bespoke Sketchup plugin called ‘Superslob’. The plugin, designed with an emphasis on accessibility, transparency and reliability, ignores the lure of algorithmic gymnastics and instead focuses on the mass-customisation potential of five simple jointing patterns applied to sheet materials. Case studies describe how, from this simple, open-ended premise, Superslob has provided a flexible and reliable tool to support vocational training and enable collaborative design with primary school students. The paper suggests how digital fabrication can support ‘making’ as a collaborative, creative and socially productive act, and reinforces the value of long-term community engagement.

History

Publication title

Across: Architectural Research through to Practice - Proceedings of the 48th International Conference of the Architectural Science Association

Editors

F Madeo, MA Schnabel

Pagination

457-468

ISBN

978-0-9923835-1-0

Department/School

School of Architecture and Design

Publisher

Genoa University Press

Place of publication

Genoa, Italy

Event title

48th International Conference of the Architectural Science Association

Event Venue

Genoa, Italy

Date of Event (Start Date)

2014-12-10

Date of Event (End Date)

2014-12-13

Rights statement

Copyright 2014 The Architectural Science Association

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Other construction not elsewhere classified

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