Architecture Program Report Tulane University New Orleans ...

considered an “outreach charrette” and requires the support of members of TSA
for its success. The establishment of URBANbuild, CITYbuild, and the Tulane
City Center have also begun to address major architectural and urban problems
in New Orleans. We adamantly endorse any TSA sponsored program, whether
in or out of studio, that allows us to have an immediate and direct influence on
our city. These programs are incredibly important to our education and our
community and should be continued indefinitely. Italics (GLZ)
We believe that a discussion of studio culture should continue on a yearly
basis as the school and profession continue to evolve. In order to facilitate this,
we recommend the creation of a Joint Task Force on Studio Culture organized
through the American Institute of Architecture Students and the Architecture
Student Government. Professors and students should work together to discuss
the culture of the school and implement the suggestions that arise in the
discussion. To ensure the continuation of the Analysis Group as students come
and go, it is important for the faculty to assist in facilitating this discussion. Finally,
to continue this dialogue among students, we propose that this be presented at a
faculty meeting, posted and discussed digitally and physically on the school
sponsored webpage, myTulane, as well as on the walls of the school.
The Studio Culture Initiative Summary
TSA’s Perceived Strengths
The atmosphere at the school promotes collaboration between students
The curriculum is successful in involving courses outside of the School of
Architecture for a more balanced education.
There are active student organizations and a strong unity and cohesiveness
among students.
Outreach programs, such as Architects’ Week, help to engage the surrounding
community and build relationships among the students and the professors.
Open channels of dialogue, both between students and between students and
professors, are valued highly.
Suggestions
There should be a greater effort to break down the student teacher barrier
through professional contact outside of the studio environment. This will help to
foster a stronger connection and better understanding between students and
professors.
Time should be valued. A time-log should be implemented in First Year to help
students understand the real value of their time, and professors should endorse a
healthy lifestyle.
The collaborative atmosphere generated when students work in studio is unique
to the architecture curriculum and this should be emphasized.