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Institutional development · Teaching, learning and curriculum · Oman
GUtech urban design programmes teach students to study how people use a site first
The German University of Technology in Oman says its urban planning and architectural design programmes train students to take a facilitative rather than prescriptive approach, starting from observation of local users.
Why it matters: Students in GUtech's Department of Urban Planning and Architectural Design are taught to begin projects by observing a location and engaging with the people who use it.
The German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech) said its Department of Urban Planning and Architectural Design concentrates on the changing nature of urban environments so that spaces fit how people actually use them.
According to the university, the department's programmes give priority to training designers who facilitate rather than prescribe, which it says leaves people more freedom to use spaces in line with their needs and routines.
Iman Al Ofi, an instructor at GUtech, said students are advised to observe, to stay in contact with people in an area and to understand who they are, adding that "The first stage is always the location."
Editor’s view
Sarah Williamson, Teaching, Digital and AI Editor
According to instructor Iman Al Ofi, students in GUtech's urban planning and architectural design programmes are taught to identify the opportunities in an area before its problems, with the location always the first stage.
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