"…one can't separate the ideas from the tools; all culture has a technological basis." -Critchfield

Technology is an essential part of local culture, as well as the method by which universal civilization is implemented. Whether the technology being used is traditional tools or contemporary technics, it is the means by which we create our relationship with the earth. In this way, technology can become a mode to comprehend the site, as well as enhance the legibility of its essence by embodying the issues of place. As such, technology is not only artifacts and processes, but also an inquiry into our relationship with the environment.

In looking to the Greek origin of the word "technology," techne has often been defined as meaning both art and craft. However, according to the twentieth century philosopher, Martin Heidegger, "techne signifies neither craft nor art, and not at all the technical in the present day sense; it never means a kind of practical performance...The word techne denotes a mode of knowing...techne never signifies the action of making." In this way, technology can become the means to understand the site and divulge the essence of place.

By intertwining technology with site, the form becomes an animated understanding of the specificities and diversity of place. The building has the opportunity to register environmental change and develop an aesthetics of changing response. Through this demarcation, an animism can evolve. The objective is to find meaning in building through the integration of technology with macro- and micro-scale site conditions that result in cultural meaning.

This studio course will involve intensive research on ecologically based technology, experimental constructs employing the research, lectures by outside consultants, individual program development, site selection, and comprehensive site analysis. The research will focus on methodologies, experimental technologies, as well as vernacular through contemporary case studies. Each student will develop his/her own theoretical position on the topic resulting in a short position paper and a capstone project as a reflection of this discourse.

A four page program and site selection statement is due on the first day of class. The requirements for the statement will be available on the Design X website.

Susan Frostén
Assistant Professor
Philadelphia University
School of Architecture and Design
A812 Design X: Capstone Studio
Spring 2002

contact info:
frostens@philau.edu x2595
http://faculty.philau.edu/frostens