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Dania Abdelaziz

Research

​​​​​Research Title :A cross-domain systematic review on guest speakers in higher education: Reconsidering the role of "outsiders" in architecture education.

Authors : Dania Abdelaziz, Altuğ Kasalı, Tonguç Akış​

Abstract :Guest speaker events, as a form of instructional strategy in higher education settings, has long been recognized as a valid pedagogical method, whereas the factors that either promote or hinder the efficacy of this strategy in architecture education has not been extensively investigated. Accordingly, this paper presents a cross-domain literature review on the topic. The findings of the review have led to a discussion on guest speakers in design studios as an effective manifestation of inquiry-based learning (IBL). By searching 8 databases using the PICO framework, a systematic literature review was conducted to an in-depth examination of 35 articles across 25 domains in higher education, followed by a thematic analysis considering Braun and Clarke’s approach. The interpretive analysis yielded six themes: (1) bridging academia and practice, (2) speaker selection, (3) event planning, (4) content and format, (5) interaction mode, and (6) students’ preferences. While incorporating guest speakers can enhance student engagement, critical thinking, and networking, successful implementation hinges on addressing several factors such as the role of instructors’ guidance and tailoring topics and guest speakers’ selection with students' levels. Students' engagement with guest speakers in exploring content, issues, real-world perspectives and questions aligns with experiential learning and IBL principles. The study underscores the need for additional research in architecture education to understand students’ and instructors’ perceptions, concerning the role of guest speakers particularly on issues like contributions to learning, influence on design approaches and the implications for developing collaborative pedagogical practices.

Keywords :Design education, cross-domain literature, higher education, guest speakers; inquiry-based learning.

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​​​​​Research Title :The Dilemmas of Complexity in Design Studios and The Teachers' Role

Authors : Dania Abdelaziz​

Abstract :Learning in design studios is a complex process that overwhelms the students and results in common mutual-misunderstandings between student-teacher. This research aims to tackle teachers' role in the design studio and explore how they can help students navigate the design learning complexities. The emphasis in learning design is primarily on students who are not aware of their learning. This puts teachers at a disadvantage, sometimes not knowing what to do or concentrating on students' learning but not knowing their teaching, or even focusing on their teaching but not aware of the importance of learning how to teach. What is the teacher-student interaction patterns that can help students get over/deal with complexities in design studios learning environments? Can building up awareness of the teachers' role help the students learn and enhance their teaching methods? The research carried out a literature review to draw a holistic understanding of the dimensions of complexities in design studios and teachers' role to solve these difficulties. It can be concluded the importance of the teacher's role in teaching design is as essential as the role of the students in learning design. Teacher-student interaction enhances the students' design learning and the teachers' design teaching. Students should be aware of their roles as learners and the role of their teachers. Agreeing with the students makes the teaching-learning journey more fruitful while students get rid of their uncertainty and be more confident.

Keywords : Design learning , Architectural education , Interaction , Teaching capacities , Educator's role

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​​​​​Research Title :Re-Examine Conventional Concepts in Urban Design: The Conflict Between Urban Space Utilization and the Elements of Power and Control - Case of Hawkers within Amman, Jordan

Authors : Dania Abdel-Aziz​

Abstract :Architecture and urbanism are disciplines based on knowledge of space. From this point of view, this research aims to study the challenges of dealing with hawkers (Street Vendors) in Jordan's urban centres generally by shedding light on downtown Amman. Although they succeed in acquiring and controlling space informally in Amman, hawkers have been ignored by local planners and even been harassed by local authorities for not being given space to operate their businesses. Rigid transformations should be carried in urban planning strategies in downtown Amman. Local policies need to be enforced to end this conflict and provide suitable conditions and capacities to read and respond to the hawkers' needs. They represent an integral part of the region's urban fabric. This study is based on reviewing related literature, field survey, and observations carried out for two months in the study area. In addition to several informal discussions held with the hawkers, pedestrians, merchants, and local authorities, questionnaires were used to clarify specific issues. The study suggests a few recommendations to help fulfil urban centres' effective utilization and harmonize formal activities and the hawkers in order to resolve this conflict. The study found that street hawkers are only considered trouble makers and have never been involved in decision-making when urban planning occurs. These will be an ongoing issue, not unless they are integrated into the planning processes. The study suggests different scenarios for proper allocation of hawking space can be done regarding accommodating them according to their space requirements worked out the basis of the products sold, as has been done in the present study. In short, this will help in providing suitable trading environments for the hawkers, creating a pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood, decreasing the unemployment rate, among other advantages.

Keywords :Street vendors; central business district; convivial urban space; national policy; hawking space

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​​​​​Research Title :Improving The Day Lighting of Deep plan Buildings by Means of Light Piping Technique: The Case of Architectural Studios in The Department of Architecture, University of Jordan

Authors : Dania Abdel-Aziz, Esra'a A. Al-Qudah, Hadeel Y. Yasien, Rizeq Hamad​

Abstract :This research discussed the importance of daylight as one of the major factors in sustainable architectural design and highlights the significant role of daylight in energy consumption reduction and enhancement of human health and performance due to the unique characteristics of daylight such as; spectral composition, quality, and variability which has demonstrated to make it a preferred source of lighting. A physical 1/20 scale testing model is built in real sky design conditions to evaluate the feasibility of utilizing light pipes to enhance daylight in deep plan studio and to reduce the need for electric lighting. Using the model in outdoor day-lighting condition helped to evaluate the daylight performance of different mirrored light pipe prototypes. The study provides insight about light pipes parameters and evaluated them in order to understand the relationship between those parameters and the amount of illumination delivered. The parameters include cross-section shape, crosssection area, internal angle and collector’s size and inclination angle. The research proved that the light pipe system is the simplest advanced system that allows daylight to transport into the interior spaces where windows are restricted. Five horizontal pipes are sufficient to illuminate the studio by 750 Lux which are recommended in design studios.

Keywords : Mirrored light pipes, scale model testing, poorly lit spaces, daylight system, educational buildings.

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​​​​​Research Title :A Participatory Educational Experiment of Engaging Children in Reshaping Built Environments - A Mutual Impact: Children and Cityscapes

Authors :Dania M. Abdel-Aziz, Hanin I Shuqair ​

Abstract :This paper addresses the need for transformational changes and adaptations in city-design thinking of today, on both local Jordanian and international levels; adaptations that are to make cities of today more inclusive, sustainable and resilient. The change in viewing conventional planning processes discussed is to further enhance global design and planning shifts towards participatory planning by embracing new input from different city users; also children, where their ideas are to be creatively channelled into creating quality living spaces and enhance place-making mechanisms. This research aims at shedding light on both the possibility and capability of integrating children in different design tasks regarding improving their environments. This research also emphasizes on the importance of giving children an opportunity to express their views and gain an understanding and appreciation of how planning is intimately linked to many aspects of their daily lives and the future of their communities, but also incorporating their imagination and experiences into making better places for happier people of all ages, on many city scales. Through a series of carefully designed workshops, children's perception of their built environments, their experiences, their judgement and decision-making on finding solutions and alternatives to problems of resource allocation for example, spatial relationships among different land uses, proximity of health facilities and educational services and environmental protection were explored, based on what they themselves would like to change in reference to their own daily lives. Qualitative observations were taken and analysed, and afterwards summarized and compared to prevailing planning and design practices and concepts.

Keywords : City, design and planning, integration, participation, workshop, youth, place-making

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​​​​​Research Title :Evaluating the Visual Pollution in Urban Corridors-Case of Al-Madina Al-Munawara Corridor, Amman

Authors :Lamis K. Shaban, Sarinaz Suleiman, Dania Abdel-Aziz and Hasan Y. Isawi ​

Abstract :Urban corridors play important roles in all cities. The term corridor suggests a connection and access between urban districts, besides planners considered them as major elements in shaping the city image and forming its identity. This study examined the visual effects (quality) that resulted from the contemporary urban transformation practice in Al-Madina Al-Munawara Street which local planners considered one of the main urban corridors in Amman, the capital of Jordan. This study aimed to direct the efforts to search for positive visual characteristics that may strengthen the identity of urban corridors and reduce the visual pollution created by the lack of one language and clear regulation by analysing the visual characteristics at this corridor and linking them with the factors that affected its urban growth. Researchers also studied the discordant chaos resulting from designed facades practices where each building owner seeks attention. The paper sighted the massive visual pollution resulted in this corridor and concluded that the undefined architectural statements, the lack of awareness and the absence of clear regulation were the main factors that produced a chaos in its visual properties

Keywords : Architecture, street facades, urban design guidance, urban transformation, visual properties

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​​​​​Research Title :Using pervious concrete for managing storm water run-off in urban neighborhoods: Case of Amman

Authors :Dania M. Abdel-Aziz, Duaa O. Al-Maani, Wael Al-Azhari ​

Abstract :Pervious concrete is a new concrete with high porosity which usually used for flat work applications in order to allow water to pass through it, and by that it reduces the volume of direct water runoff from a site and increases the quality of storm water and water pollution. Due to the high flow rate of water through Pervious concrete pavement, rainfall can be captured and percolate into the ground, recharging groundwater, supporting sustainable construction, reducing storm-water runoff, and providing a solution for construction that is sensitive to environmental concerns. In urban areas especially where the land is very expensive, Pervious concrete pavement and its sub-base may provide a good amount of water storage capacity which eliminates the need for precipitation runoff containment strategies. This study examines the advantages of using such material to maximize storm-water, minimize flooding and improve water filtration in Jordan by replacing a selected parking lot area in the University of Jordan campus with Pervious concrete. The findings of this research support that using Pervious surfaces in stormwater management is a sustainable and yet environment friendly way of waterstorming.

Keywords :Porous concrete; ImPervious surfaces; Permeable pavement; Storm water; Water quality; University of Jordan

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​​​​​Research Title :The Impact of Using Light Transmitting Concrete on Energy Saving in Office Buildings-case of Jordan

Authors :Nabeel Al-Kurdi, Dania Abdel-Aziz, Abdulsalam Alshboul ​

Abstract :Electric lighting is one of the major energy consuming items in many non-domestic buildings. Using day lighting schemes can help reduce the electrical demand and contribute to the visual comfort and green building development. Building energy saving for engineering structures have obtained the worldwide attention. There is an essential need to develop a new kind of building material, which can integrate green energy saving with self-sensing properties of functional material. This study presents a study on the impact of using light transmitting concrete on energy saving in office buildings by offering daylight scheme for the building. The results showed significant effects of using light transmitting concrete on reducing the electricity consume in office buildings by reducing artificial light demand. This will enhance the daylight indoor quality, worker's productivity and satisfaction. Further work needs to be done to explore the effects of light transmitting concrete on cooling in buildings.

Keywords :Daylight scheme and translucent concrete, energy saving, light transmitting concrete,

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​​​​​Research Title :Effects of tree shading on building’s energy consumption-the case of residential buildings in a mediterranean climate

Authors :Dania M. Abdel-Aziz, Abdulsalam Al Shboul, Nabeel Y. Al-Kurdi ​

Abstract :Several studies investigated the impact of urban forests on city micro-climate. Evapotranspiration, alone or in combination with shading, can help reduce peak summer temperatures by 1–5°C (19). Tree-shade alters building cooling loads by preventing incident solar radiation on building facades. Tree-sun-building interactions influence the magnitude of this effect. The objective of this paper is to present a simplified method for making these interactions effective for dwellings in Amman, the capital of Jordan, representing a Mediterranean climate. We selected two types of trees, commonly used in residential plantation. The location of these trees around the studied building as observed in real practice. The method of analysis depended mainly on how a tree can reduce direct solar absorption by the building’s wall, when it casts shade upon a wall portion through day time. This is then subtracted from the overall cooling load; a total summation of the trees effect is then calculated. Using tree-shade as an external shading strategy showed that there is notable decrease in cooling loads; therefore, as a result there is reduction in electricity consumption. It is important for future studies to set up an energy conserving planting program criteria in Amman including tree selection and site recommendations.

Keywords : Comfort, Cooling loads, Energy saving, Passive cooling, Shading, Mediterranean climate

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​​​​​Research Title :Amman’s Facades Lost between Identity and Veracity; Factors Impacting Facades’ Design

Authors : Dania Abdel-Aziz, Hanin I. Shuqair​

Abstract :Today`s building façades continuously lose connection to their local identities and contextual surroundings; more attention is required when designing façades in order to come up with designs that synergize with their unique surroundings. This does not imply that building façades should be approached in a typical traditional manner, but rather that their design should be a result of different factors, interacting and overlapping, and in respect to the physical and non-physical context. Façades should be designed in respect to high performance, aesthetics and efficient constructability for example, and this in return indicates that variations in façade designs are a positive indication that buildings are responding to their built and natural contexts. Architects and designers should respond to side effects of globalization resulting in the spreading of out of context styles, unresponsive and kitschy, in order to save the visual interest in the city and the beyond physical meaning of architecture. It is advised here that architects and designers articulate the very meaning of modernity within local architecture and environment. This article tries to discuss various factors impacting façade design generally, relating discussions to the current situation Amman, the metropolis, and its buildings are undergoing.

Keywords : Façade design, contemporary façade, local identity, Amman.

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​​​​​Research Title :Estimating the Effect of Urban Trees on Summertime Electricity Use and Air Quality Improvement in Urban Areas–Amman as a Case Study

Authors : Dania Abdel-Aziz, Nabeel Al-Kurdi​

Abstract :The importance of trees as an urban microclimatic modifier is well known, but little work has been done on semi-arid climates in general, while no similar studies have been done on a local level in Jordan. Conducting such studies, especially on the local level, will provide useful data on trees as a shading device and their role in mitigating the urban heat island effect and in minimizing the continuous rising temperature in city cores and dense areas. This study aims at providing professionals as well as architects with the impacts of shade trees on air conditioning electricity use for residential buildings in Amman, hence an awareness of this issue is encouraged reflecting on both professionals and city residents. The study suggests a tree planting design guideline based on the computer simulation results for new and existing residential construction. Based on the outcomes, energy savings calculated for 50 typical residential buildings in Al-Hashmi Al-Shamali district, indicate that after planting 100 Pistacia atlantica (Mount Atlad Pistachio) medium size trees based on a specific criteria in respect to the landuse regulations for residential C; planted trees succeeded in lowering the cooling loads where the energy savings in summer were about 43.34%, 42.4% and 28.11%, for east, west and south elevations, respectively. These results indicated that the effect of planting trees around these building succeeded in lowering the total cooling loads by 35.87 %. This could be generalized to East Amman areas where the climatic conditions, building characteristics and lot setbacks are very similar to Al-Hashmi Al-Shamali.

Keywords :Amman, energy savings, Revit, tree benefits, cooling energy, semi-arid climate

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​​​​​Research Title :Regional Planning in Jordan, the Status Quo - Regional Planning in the Jordan Rift Valley

Authors : Hanin I Shuqair, Dania M. Abdel-Aziz​

Abstract :This paper is intended to examine and research a new way of planning on the Jordanian ground, regional planning, a planning approach proven to be highly effective globally on multiple levels but unfortunately not widely practiced in the Arab World. This research paper tries to examine how the area of the Jordan Valley is being administered regionally, and attempts to breakdown and discuss the different elements of this process in a critical manner. Outcomes of the reserch indicate mainly that although this planning approach is implicated to a certain degree; still it is seen as being more sectoral in nature.

Keywords : Jordan Rift Valley, Regional Planning, Dead Sea, Master Plan, Sustainability

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​​​​​Research Title :Efficient and Strategic Resource Allocation for Sustainable Development in Jordan

Authors : Hanin I Shuqair, Dania M. Abdel-Aziz​

Abstract :This research addresses a modern-day major topic; sustainability, and although it is in fact a very vast and wide topic and on every tongue at current times, some aspects of it seem to be left with little exploration in comparison to the other aspects, such as resource allocation. Mainly, this research will go into the importance of resource allocation for sustainable development, with emphasis on infrastructure, financial, human and information resources, and it will address topic related questions, questions like: how much effect has resource allocation on sustainable place promotion? And is it possible to allocate resources on the basis of any priority structure? And most of all, what can we do in Jordan to improve allocation of resources to achieve the desired integrated and long term development. The results basically highlight incorporating the public for achieving equitable resource allocation, and its dependence on concepts of having a priority system not hierarchy for the process of allocation, planning with objectives and introducing new adaptable global concepts to alleviate the current resource allocation condition in Jordan. This research basically recommends that resources should be allocated according to the priorities and objectives concept, objectives that are predetermined and integrated with a holistic vision of how development should be in a certain area, facilitated by a proper national agenda. Also, these priorities and objectives should always be determined according to the locals in the concerned area, and in a way that is environmentally considerate, socially integrated and economically strengthening.

Keywords : External and internal resources; Decentralization; Community involvement; Resource allocation According to priorities; Accountability; Equally shared benefits

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​​​​​Research Title :Architecture as a Part of Cure: Will Living Spaces Turn Into Hospitals After the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Authors :Dania Abdel-Aziz ​

Abstract :Architecture is not only inspired by imagination. It is also a response to human needs. Architecture and urban planning have always played a fundamental role during pandemics and post-pandemic time. Pandemics, whether synthetic or natural, have long been a catastrophe for cities. Meanwhile, they had an enormous influence in shaping environments, buildings, and cities. Human responses to this pandemic are what helped in shaping architecture, not the pandemic itself. Health pandemics such as; Cholera in the nineteenth century helped develop the city's infrastructure, building wide boulevards and parks. Likewise, in the twentieth century, Tuberculosis led to modern urban planning and architecture. Currently, COVID-19 is the most pressing health problem as a cause of death worldwide. Will this recent pandemic have a similar effect on the built environment in the near future? Will a new architectural movement evolve in response to this pandemic? In an attempt to visualize the post-pandemic architecture, a historical review has been carried out studying the impact of the previous pandemics on the built environment. The consequences COVID-19 had on human interactions within the built environment were discussed by tracking this pandemic's current architectural response. This review found that this epidemic has affected public perceptions and future behaviour to become more immune, responsible, and caring for nature. The awareness of sustainability and energy use among people and governments has arisen. Throughout the post-pandemic, it can be seen that the architecture will be more dynamic and intelligent, meaning that the city will be safe for all groups. Meanwhile, the interest in employing technology in designs will continue due to the leading role in providing solutions to this epidemic.

Keywords : Post-pandemic Architecture, Sustainable Architecture, Built Environment, Human Interaction

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Dr. Dania Abdelaziz

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