Through a new lense :an analysis of traveling and the architecture studio

Abstract

A staple of architecture school is an emphasis on travel. At Ball State University's College of Architecture and Planning, part of the mission is to expand the learning environment to outside the classroom. One unique study abroad program offered is Polyark/World Tour. This semester long interdisciplinary program includes travel to approximately thirty countries throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa. While traveling, students develop a design studio project based on the observation and analysis of the world as a precedent. This project is the result of these experiences. I analyze this process by pinpointing key places as especially influential in the design project, explaining the importance of the study abroad program, and identifying the lasting impact travel has on design students.