Teaching resource uses London’s 2012 Olympic venues to inspire young people about design process and creative thinking

The RIBA has launched Inspired by Design, a new education resource that uses London’s 2012 Olympic venues to inspire young people about how detailed design processes and creative thinking can lead to remarkable new buildings.

The resource, designed primarily for secondary schools and colleges, provides teachers with a selection of stimulating and accessible materials, including illustrated presentations and interactive ideas for student participation.

Angela Brady, RIBA president, said: “Inspired by Design is a really valuable resource for teachers and students, which brings alive the design process behind these fantastic buildings – it will inspire pupils by showing them how architects actually work.”

It primarily focuses on the following areas with an emphasis on design and technology:

  • Design journeys

A selection of presentations which investigate the design processes behind the Olympic Stadium and the Velodrome, with associated activity ideas. 

  • Design skills

Key design skills are focused on through specific London 2012 buildings: CAD computer-aided design (Aquatics Centre), model making (Basketball Arena) and site anaylsis (substation)

  • Design challenges

Resources for short challenge projects including the design of a footbridge and landmark building on the Olympic site, plus ideas for running design briefs about the legacy of the Olympic Park (the use of the site and buildings post-Games).

Inspired by Design is available online here.

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