Enhancing teaching and learning of sustainable design through ICTs

The promotion of sustainability in the design of the built environment is an essential factor for addressing current challenges in response to resource availability, energy production, ecological deterioration and climate change. A new pedagogical methodology for the teaching and learning of sustainable design in the architectural curriculum has to be developed in order to overcome educational barriers and act as a communication platform that facilitates the effective transfer of knowledge between sustainability-related building sciences and creative design. Amongst existing opportunities, a way to promote cultural understanding, self-reflection and deep learning - whilst combining theoretical knowledge, empirical skills and analytical tools - can be given by new advanced educational techniques derived from Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). The aim of this paper is to critically analyze the hindrances to the successful integration of sustainable design in the pedagogy and practice of architecture and promote the use of e-learning methodologies and tools in the effort to enhance the educational provision of students and professionals of the built environment.