The adoption of a circular economy approach to pedagogical learning in architectural technology.

Scott, Jonathan; Seddiki, Mohammed

Abstract

The construction industry is undergoing a significant shift towards sustainability, with circular economy emerging as a key strategy to address resource depletion, waste management, and carbon emissions. This paper explores the integration of circular economy principles into pedagogical teaching within the discipline of architectural technology. By embedding circularity concepts—such as material reuse, life-cycle thinking, and sustainable design—into the curriculum, architectural technology programs can better prepare students for the evolving demands of the construction industry. This study investigates how the incorporation of these principles not only enhances students' technical knowledge but also fosters innovation in design thinking and problem-solving. Through case studies, curriculum development frameworks, and industry collaborations, this paper outlines how adopting a circular economy perspective can bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application in construction. The paper also highlights how these skills increase the employability of graduates, making them valuable assets in a rapidly changing industry that prioritizes sustainability and environmental responsibility. The findings suggest that architectural technology students equipped with circular economy knowledge are better positioned to contribute to sustainable practices, drive innovation, and address future industry challenges. As the construction sector continues to evolve, integrating circular economy principles into education will be essential in developing professionals who can lead the way in creating a more sustainable built environment.

Citation

SCOTT, J. and SEDDIKI, M. 2025. The adoption of a circular economy approach to pedagogical learning in architectural technology. In Kouider, T. and Galiano Garrigós, A. (eds.) Proceedings of the 11th International congress on architectural technology 2025 (ICAT 2025): buildings fit for climate change, 15-17 May 2025, Alicante, Spain. San Vicente del Raspeig: Universidad de Alicante [online], pages 241-254. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10045/154594

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (published)
• Conference Name: 11th International congress on architectural technology 2025 (ICAT 2025): building fit for climate change
• Start Date: May 15, 2025
• End Date: May 17, 2025
• Acceptance Date: Dec 20, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Jun 10, 2025
• Publication Date: May 31, 2025
• Deposit Date: Sep 19, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 13, 2025
• Publisher: Universidad de Alicante
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Pages: 241-254
• ISBN: 9788413023182
• Keywords: Circular economy; Sustainability; Pedagogy; Problem solving; Architectural technology pedagogy
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/2481384
• Additional Information: The full proceedings of this conference is available from http://rua.ua.es/dspace/handle/10045/154489
• External URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10045/154594
• Other Repo URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10045/154594