The Link between Research and Teaching in Architecture

In the current higher education climate, the link between teaching and the research that occurs in universities is a regular topic of debate. Research evidence suggests that this relationship is complex in nature and academics understanding of what is meant by the link between research and teaching vary. Within the subject area of Architecture, the relationship between teaching and research is particularly complex, given that academics are being encouraged to submit practice based (design) research as part of the UK’s Research Assessment Exercise (RAE). Furthermore, the emphasis within schools of architecture on design project work is likely to provide opportunities for research to interact with student learning.Through the use of case studies, a review of existing literature and an analysis of previous RAE submissions by schools of architecture, this paper evaluates the nexus between research and teaching in architecture, outlining how the disciplinary distinctions of the subject might impact upon the conception held on what is meant by linking research and teaching.