Studio Culture Policy

The studio experience is a time of intense individual and collective effort, resulting in much self-scrutiny. It consists of a pedagogy and language of expression that are radically different from conventional classroom settings. It requires a set of skills not always anticipated by beginning students, including time management, research, teamwork, and clarity of written and verbal presentation.

The design studio is a rich learning environment, a voyage of discovery and growth where discrete disciplines are synthesized in the design process. The Department of Architecture and Interior Design at Miami University emphasizes a studio atmosphere where students take the initiative in learning with instructors. A departmental focus on student/professor interaction is achieved through an appropriate student to instructor ratio. This fosters strong communication during designated studio hours but also allows for interaction throughout the academic week. Critique is encouraged from both faculty and fellow students to create the most helpful instances for learning.

In order to foster successful learning experiences among students and faculty alike, an atmosphere of respect, clear communication, and understanding is necessary. To establish these goals the studio experience should embrace the following four core principles: responsibility, academic awareness, personal exploration and growth, and community.