If you ever walked into an architecture studio and wondered why everyone looked like sleep deprived raccoons, well it is probably because they pulled an all-nighter. Why is this standard across the world? Is architecture really that tiresome and grueling? Or have we glorified the concept of overworking and made it a legacy.?
Architecture in the bygone eras without technology was done completely manually. The plan of a high rise building would require 40 hardworking men lying on top of sheets as large as the whole plan only for it to get changed and redrafted. We required sleepless nights, we required hours of relentless hardwork for just the basic output. But is that the case today?
Not at all! We are in the era of Artificial Intelligence which now helps us iterate a single plan into a million. We have countless softwares to help us visualize and draft. We have growing interests in holistic learning like Building Integrated Modelling (BIM) which helps us collaborate across the field.
Here are some reasons why architecture students may struggle with sleep and feel tired:
Intense workload: Architecture programs typically involve rigorous coursework, studio projects, and design assignments that require extensive research, planning, and execution. These tasks often demand long hours of work, which can disrupt sleep patterns.
Studio culture: Architecture studios often encourage a culture of late-night work and constant striving for perfection. Students may feel compelled to spend excessive hours in the studio to meet deadlines or impress their professors and peers.
Tight deadlines: Architecture projects often have tight deadlines, leaving students with little time for adequate rest. The pressure to complete assignments on time can lead to sleep deprivation.
Balancing multiple projects: Architecture students usually work on multiple projects simultaneously, each with its own set of requirements. Juggling these projects can lead to a lack of sleep as students try to manage their workload.
To improve the situation and promote better sleep habits among architecture students, several measures can be taken:
Time management: Encouraging students to develop effective time management skills can help them prioritize tasks and allocate sufficient time for rest and sleep.
Setting realistic expectations: Educators and institutions should communicate realistic expectations regarding workload and deadlines, considering the well-being of students. Providing ample time for assignments and projects can alleviate some of the pressures that lead to sleep deprivation.
Promoting healthy studio culture: Encourage a healthy studio environment that values work-life balance. Discourage the glorification of sleep deprivation and all-nighters, emphasizing the importance of self-care and rest.
Providing resources and support: Institutions can offer resources such as time management workshops, stress management programs, and counseling services to help students cope with the demands of their studies.
Creating designated rest spaces: Designated spaces for relaxation and rest within the studio or campus can allow students to take short breaks or power naps, rejuvenating their energy levels.
Educating on sleep hygiene: Institutions can educate students about the importance of sleep hygiene, including practices like maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a conducive sleep environment, and avoiding excessive caffeine or stimulant intake.
Encouraging collaboration and teamwork: Group projects and collaboration among students can help distribute the workload and foster a supportive community, reducing individual burdens and promoting healthier work habits.
It is important for educational institutions and students themselves to recognize the value of sufficient sleep and take proactive steps to prioritize well-being alongside academic success. It is high-time we eradicated this concept of overnight work when it is completely unnecessary.
Here is to hoping the future students would not have to grind like I did and yet produce quality work. I think this small can change can go a long way in improving the mental health and quality of life one can have, not just in architecture but if needed across other fields too.
For more such articles subscribe to our page and be sure to click on reminders for regular updates!
Click here to check out our latest article :
Comments