Looking for a design professional to partner with your class? Try reaching out to these groups.
- Architecture for Humanity Chapters
- American Institute of Architects - Chapters
- American Institute of Architects - Architects
- UIA Associations
Having trouble finding a professional in your area? Contact us.
Learning about architecture and the built environment empowers us to think about space differently and to shape our surroundings.
We're excited to be partnering with students and teachers. We hope you will enjoy participating in the challenge. Below are some resources developed specifically with primary and secondary classes in mind.
Design Curriculum
Introduce your class to the world of architecture.
To support students and teachers participating in this year's challenge, we've created a design curriculum with a little (ok, a lot of) help from our education partners.
Lesson plans cover basic concepts in structural design, sustainability, 3-D computer modeling and physical modeling (using recycled materials, naturally.) It meets US National Education Standards in Math, Science, Geography and Fine Arts, and introduces students to the U.N. Millenium Development Goals.
Think of this as just a start. We welcome your ideas and additions.
The curriculum is hosted on Curriki, an online environment created to support the development and free distribution of world-class educational materials to anyone who needs them. We are grateful to Curriki for their help in developing the curriculum and making it freely accessible.
Webcast Series hosted by Global Nomads
Meet architects from around the world.
Throughout the 2009 Open Architecture Challenge, we will be partnering with Global Nomads Group, to share a series of conversations about architecture and design between students and architects from around the world. The series will be hosted by Global Nomads Group as part of their interactive programming for youth. A link to a webcast of each of these sessions will be posted here as they become available.
Check back soon for schedule updates and more details on guest speakers and other resources.
Webcast Schedule
February 25, 2009 - Lesson 1: INSTINCT
March 11, 2009 - Lesson 2: THE SITE
March 25, 2009 - Lesson 3: SUSTAINABLE BUILDING
April 8, 2009 - Lesson 4: THE SUN
April 22, 2009 - Lesson 5: STRUCTURE
May 6, 2009 - Lesson 6: ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
May 20, 2009 - Lesson 7: MAKING A MODEL OF YOUR CLASSROOM
June 3, 2009 - Lesson 8: THE SKETCHUP
We thank Global Nomads Group for their generous support in making this series possible. Learn more about Global Nomads Group
Please note:
You are not required to make use of the resources above to participate in the challenge. These resources are provided for your reference and may be used at your discretion.
