ABSTRACT
Architects need the ability to change their individual site and client-based design practices to become more integrated with and responsive to surrounding cultures and contexts beyond reducing energy and embodied carbon. To be able to address wider social and cultural issues in this way begins with a different type of architect. Architects need to be taught to become more aware of their responsibilities to their wider communities for the effects of their design outputs; to listen and balance wider community and individual client needs. New participatory design practices that reconnect students to local and international contexts directly and indirectly affected by their work equip students with cooperation skills and wider social responsibility. Students learning about their potential positive agency to initiate and be the change they seek through local design and build projects is an effective way to create positive changes through increased professional responsibility.
