No abstract

The aim of this methodological description is to illustrate the application of mixed methods research in architectural design using a hybrid model consisting of a taxonomy development model and an embedded quasi-experimental model. The research employed qualitative and quantitative methods to explore the design of an architectural intervention and determine its effectiveness in improving environmental knowledge, attitudes, and behavior among primary school students. It also outlined strategies adopted to overcome the challenges related to the use of a hybrid design. Combining sequential and embedded mixed methods designs is a relatively new approach in architectural research, providing new insights that contribute to future mixed methods exploration in the field of design and planning.

No abstract

The use of the physical environment as a three-dimensional (3-D) textbook is not a common practice in educational facilities design. Previous researches documented that little progress has been made to incorporate environmental education (EE) into architecture, especially among the conventional designers who are often constrained by the budget and building area requirements. This article presents an exploratory project to develop a prototype for the 3-D textbook. The author does not formulate ideas and concept based on the pre-determined specs in a design brief. Instead, the design solution evolved through a qualitative case study conducted at the Green School in Bali, Indonesia. Data were collected through a series of interviews and on-site observations. The qualitative findings uncovered four design features for the 3-D textbook. A prototype was subsequently developed using the design features as a blueprint. The prototype serves as a testing ground for new ideas as well as a platform to promote awareness and acceptance of the 3-D textbook among the practitioners. Consequently, this article attempted a significant proposition to bring together architecture and EE, thus potentially contributing to a field of knowledge that embraces design and education.

No abstract