Experiment
in Architecture
Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT)
Lead Instructor
Curriculum Development / Visual Training / Communication Training / Software Training / Program Development / Event Production & Coordination
From 2018-2021, Lauren served as one of the Lead Instructors for the Experiment in Architecture (EiA) program. EiA is a two-week long workshop designed to introduce high school students to the profession of architecture through firm visits, field trips, and studio practice. Held on-campus at IIT in Chicago, the program provides a comprehensive overview of the study and practice of architecture.
Teaching Cohort: Brianda Mireles (Co-Lead) with support from Mark Szostak, Bahareh Jafareh, Allaa Abdelsaid, Mitchell Hawkins, Juan Ramon Cantu, Jess Monigal
In-person Curriculum
Visual Training / Software Training / Communication Training
Through iterative exercises and in-depth seminars, students are immersed in design-oriented thinking that introduces them to architectural terms, concepts, and forms of visual representation—all the while building towards a portfolio that could be used to apply to collegiate programs. With sketchbooks in tow, students participate in architectural tours and site visits around the city. They also engage in daily discussions with faculty and practitioners, complete design charrettes through visual training and hand drafting, and are exposed to design critiques and formal reviews.
Virtual Curriculum
Visual Training / Software Training / Communication Training
Beginning in 2020, the EiA curriculum transitioned to an entirely digital platform and, for the first time, utilized 2D/3D modeling software. Utilizing digital workspaces such as Mural and at.studio, students participated in highly collaborative workshops. Through iterative exercises and in-depth seminars, students were immersed conceptual and technical processes.
