The College of Engineering at the University of Baghdad, Department of Architecture, held the public discussion of the PhD dissertation submitted by researcher Amal Fadhil Khanjar, entitled:
“Green Learning through Spatial Experience: From Knowledge Acquisition to Cultural Awareness in Architectural Education.”
The discussion was held on Monday, August 24, 2026, in the Mohammed Makiya Hall at the Department of Architecture, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Huda Abdul Sahib Al-Alwan.
Dissertation Objectives
The dissertation aimed to develop and test an integrated theoretical and practical framework that expands the concept of green learning in architectural education toward a culture-based approach. It sought to demonstrate the role of spatial experience in facilitating the transition from knowledge acquisition to knowledge construction and production, ultimately leading to cultural awareness.
The dissertation also investigated the effectiveness of visual storytelling as an educational and analytical tool that contributes to expressing and interpreting students’ cognitive, emotional, and behavioral transformations.
Key Recommendations
The dissertation put forward a number of recommendations, most notably:
- Expanding the concept of green learning in architectural education to encompass cultural and spatial dimensions.
- Integrating place-based learning and field experiences into architectural curricula.
- Employing visual storytelling as an educational and assessment tool for constructing meaning and fostering cultural awareness.
- Activating heritage sites as dynamic learning environments in cooperation with relevant heritage institutions.
Dissertation Discussion Committee
The discussion committee consisted of:
- Prof. Dr. Sabih Lafta Farhan – Chair
- Prof. Dr. Inaam Amin Mohammed Saleh – Member
- Prof. Dr. Saba Sami Mahdi – Member
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dhirgham Muzhir Karim – Member
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sally Fakhri Khalaf – Member
- Prof. Dr. Huda Abdul Sahib Al-Alwan – Supervisor
Following the scientific discussion, the researcher’s defense, and the evaluation of the dissertation by the members of the discussion committee, the researcher was awarded a PhD degree in Architectural Engineering.
