The relation between brain-learning physiology and conceptualization methods in the design process of architecture students1

The importance of the design process in architecture is one of the most popular subjects for the researchers in this field. By reviewing the literature on the subject of design methods in architecture, the authors suggested a model of four types of conceptual design: analogical, typological, pragmatic and theoretical. Also, based on the previous studies of brain dominancy, individuals can be divided into four main groups. In order to find the relation between brain dominancy of architecture students and their preferred conceptualization methods in design, over 350 students of architecture participated in this research in Iran. Using Ned Herrmann’s brain physiology model, the findings concluded that the participants who use their A quadrant of brain prefer pragmatic and theoretical approaches. The preference of participants with B and C quarter-brain dominance is respectively typological and theoretical methods. Participants who use their D quadrant of brain prefer analogical and theoretical methods.