Material thinking and digital craft: Knitting techniques as a design pedagogy in architectural education

Creative Commons License

Öner D., Çakıcı Alp N., Şener Ayyıldız S.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURAL COMPUTING, 2025 (ESCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1177/14780771251405453
  • Dergi Adı: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURAL COMPUTING
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, Compendex, Index Islamicus, INSPEC
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: digital design pedagogy, experiential learning in architectural education, knitting techniques in architecture, parametric modeling and fabrication
  • Açık Arşiv Koleksiyonu: AVESİS Açık Erişim Koleksiyonu
  • Kocaeli Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

This study proposes a studio pedagogy that integrates knitting techniques with digital design and fabrication in architectural education. Grounded in Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory, the workflow spans hands-on material trials, AI-assisted variation, parametric modeling, and computer-aided manufacturing (3D printing). Using a rubric-based assessment with third-year students (N = 10), we observed the largest gains in material experimentation (mean 3.1 -> 4.5/5) and 3D printing optimization (3.0 -> 4.3/5); 80% of projects improved after structured feedback and iteration. These results indicate that knitting, coupled with CAD/CAM, supports a transparent, measurable learning environment that links craft-based exploration to computational reasoning. Findings are preliminary due to the small elective cohort and warrant replication with larger samples and controlled variables.