Reflections and experiences on the teaching of colour in the architecture and urbanism course in the University of São Paulo

Abstract

In recent years, the curriculum of the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism at the University of São Paulo (FAUUSP) has undergone a process of change in its pedagogical project. Past methods saw an excessive compartmentalisation of knowledge that proved incompatible with the new demands of the profession. The current tendency, however, is to concentrate on activities that focus on wide-ranging rather than specific themes. It is now recognised that the integration of other disciplines opens space for new approaches—including colour, even in a still uncertain manner—in the process of training the architect and urbanist. A deepened understanding of the themes is achieved by offering optional subjects to interested students. It is also important to highlight the proliferation of activities for postgraduate research aimed at training professionals, lecturers, and researchers capable of meeting the demands of the hundreds of courses distributed throughout the country. This text presents a summary of the reflections and experiences made in the undergraduate and post-graduate courses of the Faculty in recent years, aiming to add elements to the debate on the subject.