Assessing the sustainability content in Kenya’s interior design curricula

Abstract

This study aims at providing local pertinent facts on the level of sustainability content integration and pedagogical methods used to deliver Interior Design courses in Kenya's training. A systematic audit of undergraduate curricula was undertaken to understand the extent to which sustainability content was included in Kenya's Design education. Document analysis was employed to gather information from four of Kenya's University curricula for Interior Design. Heads of Design curricula from sampled Universities were also interviewed to corroborate the facts gathered from the respective universities. The data collected were analysed using descriptive methods of statistics. Findings suggest that sustainability content included in the curriculum is minimal (6.3%), yet students are more likely to adopt practises that promote a healthy indoor environment when integrated. Consequently, this significantly reduces problems linked to Sick Building Syndrome. In this regard, sustainability content should be increased in Kenya's interior design curriculum to ensure future designers are equipped with the knowledge and skills to promote sustainable interiors that focus on Indoor Air Quality, water efficiency, green materials and technology.