Fusing technology and design in the studio

The design studio is perceived as a melting pot of creative thinking. However there is a disconnection between design work and other elements of the curriculum taught outside the studio, which students frequently perceive to be peripheral at best and irrelevant at worst. The author identifies pedagogic issues that influence how students conceptualise the synthesis of technology and design project work. Factors that impact upon students' depth of learning are discussed and critically evaluated, which leads to a fundamental questioning of existing teaching practices. In arguing for a fully integrated design studio model, the paper contributes to discourse on problem-based learning, and promotes technology as a legitimate strand of creative exploration within the design process. Consequently the significance of technology within the spectrum of influences that exert themselves on an evolving design project should be increased.