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About Vabe
Goals of VABE
Built Environment
Problem Based Learning
Windsor Advantage
Coordinator's Message

contact

VABE
UNIVERSITY OF WINDSOR
401 SUNSET AVE
WINDSOR, ONTARIO
N9B3P4
mogy@uwindsor.ca
519 253 3000 (ext 2333)

problem based learning

Problem Based Learning (PBL) has been a key feature of professional training related to the built environment for decades.  Students have been encouraged to learn through the exploration of research problems by working either independently or in small self-directed teams.  The basis for using this pedagogical approach in visual arts and architecture has been to encourage students to discover the gaps in their own knowledge and facilitate a thorough look at the issues, concepts and principles associated with any problem.  As a result of this teaching method, students become more involved in, and responsible for, their own learning.

 The use of PBL methods is the foundation upon which VABE studio classes are based.  In the process of developing particular competencies through case projects, VABE students begin to acquire and hone skills that are essential for them to thrive as effective designers.  They learn what discipline-based tools are needed to solve the problems they face.  The role of the designer is understood to be one of ‘creative problem-solver’  (Bennett, 1977) - someone who is engaged in the process of problem recognition, information gathering, generation of alternative solutions, incubation, solution selection, verification, and evaluation.  The VABE problem solver delicately balances between practice, theory, skills and judgment.