VIRTUAL: Learning. Life. Work.

Abstract

Research by design is still a relatively new approach to teaching project disciplines like architecture and design. It emphasises the importance of research as a central element in discovering and substantiating solutions. This approach is a unique synthesis between research and project practice, which benefits students’ cognitive development. It encourages students to explore social, cultural, environmental, and technological issues related to the project and enables them to understand better the problems and issues addressed. This article explores the relationship between manual drawing as a design research tool and a teaching methodology. Drawing by hand allows for fluid and intuitive exploration of concepts and enables students to express their findings and insights through direct visual representations. Hand drawing helps students understand the context better, explore solutions, and visualise concepts beyond software capabilities in architecture. The freedom of manual drawing encourages rapid experimentation, leading to multiple ideas and iterations. Drawing by hand has several benefits. Firstly, it helps establish a direct link between the mind and hand, which can lead to creative insights and innovative solutions. Secondly, the exploratory nature of the drawing process enables students to explore different perspectives, scales, and details, thereby gaining a deeper understanding of the project and the issue they are addressing. Additionally, the introduction of errors in the design stage is crucial. While technology is undoubtedly essential in students’ education, this text will focus solely on drawing by hand and the ritual of keeping a graphic diary as a methodology.