Emergence studios: bringing collaboration and iteration into the social sciences

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper synthesises theory and practice literature to define a new type of learning space: emergence studios. Emergence studios incorporate iterative, collaborative, and creative elements into graduate education in the social sciences. While some disciplines have a long history of studio spaces and others have begun to implement applied spaces like makerspaces and digital humanities labs, the social sciences rarely offer spaces for application and imagination. Some programmes are exploring how to foster a learning environment where students work together to imagine structures for addressing systemic issues, what I term ‘emergence studios’. The principles of emergence studios are explored through theoretical concepts (empathetic, experiential, and ecological) and current practices (makerspaces, digital humanities laboratories, and design studios). Then, this paper uses worldbuilding techniques to outline a new type of experiential classroom space that acknowledges the complexity of our interconnected world and the need for learning that cannot be predetermined by learning objectives. By exploring related literature, this article defines an evolving practice and provides a starting point for further exploration.