The Fabrication Studio A learning situation design for complex problem-solving through digital design, materialization, and construction

In our current crisis-prone society, the competency to adapt to novel conditions is challenged increasingly. Additionally, due to increased costs and declined availability of materials and energy, architectural education requires a closer relationship to materialization and fabrication. However, due to the multiple lockdowns over the course of the COVID-19 health crisis, the student design process is strongly dematerialized, and their problem-solving competency is increasingly simplified. Therefore, to secure skills in materialization and fabrication in architectural programmes and concurrently emphasize creative and complex problem solving, in this study, an integrated learning environment called the Fabrication Studio is designed. Next, this learning environment design, where a design studio is paired with a course in Design Research and Critical Thinking, is tested with architectural students. Conclusions based on the results are made and finally, thoughts on future research are introduced.