Problem-based learning and design thinking as innovative teaching aidsin architecture education

<ns3:p>The article presents integrated problem-based learning (PBL) and design thinking (DT) in the context of teaching aids within the broader framework of architectural education. These methods represent a modern approach to university learning in the context of architectural design, as opposed to standard methods such as lectures or seminars, which provide purely theoretical knowledge. However, their implementation is frequently unsuccessful due to the consideration of practical aspects such as sustainability, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality, and climate change.Using a qualitative case study, we investigate the implementation process of PBL and DT and their impact on architectural education. The research identified the main factors contributing to effective teaching, which were subsequently used in a student survey conducted results in a course entitled "Workplaces and learning in inner-city environments" and "Elementary design" that was gathered in the form of a survey in the summer semester of the academic year 2023/2024 (28.02.2024-25.06.2024) at the FA WUST (Faculty of Architecture, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology). The results confirm that PBL and DT can be successfully combined as a single teaching methodology. Furthermore, students appreciate the effectiveness of this because it helps develop analytical skills and the ability to independently evaluate projects and solve problems.</ns3:p>