Teaching method of landscape ecology studio

Abstract

This paper presents a teaching method on a landscape architectural design studio, Basic ecology and Nature Conservation at the Department of Landscape Architechture, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. The objectives of the studio are to enhance students skills in observing, understanding, analyzing, evaluating and to explore the ecological planning for generating sustainable design idea. The subject content is made up of two main sections. The first section was introduction, via lecture inputs, literature review and graphic exercise and assignments. The second section was outdoor learning experience or case study to provide an oppurtunity for students to visit and to observe real project. The project that visited were Kuala Selangor Nature Park, Putrajaya Wetlands and Sekeping Serendah retreat home. This teaching and learning method was use as comparative study for studio design through discussion, site observation, and analyzed related data and information. The stages of design began with mionor project: literature review and reference study, ecological at work, travelogue, and doodling exercise. It was followed by a major project focused on ecological site planning and design. The design process of the major project included site inventory, analysis and synthesis, conceptual development, master plan planning, detailed area design and construction drawing. The design was evaluated using the five criteria: designs clarity and contents, development of conceptual idea, verbal presentation skill, graphic composition and rationalize on ecological design. Evaluation was done by studio master and assisted by practicing landscape architect whom shared the professional experiences in doing real project. This teaching method enabled the students to gain self learning experiences, design practices, and thinking ideas to increase their sensitivity and awareness of creating an appropriate and meaningful ecology's design.