Academic writing as a tool of professional communication in the training of architects and designers: between text and visual language

Abstract

The article examines academic writing as an important tool of professional communication in the training of future architects and designers within the context of modern higher education. The relevance of the study is обусловлена by the growing role of written forms for presenting professional ideas (explanatory notes, conceptual texts, research reports, portfolios) and, at the same time, by the insufficient attention paid to the specific nature of academic writing in the field of visual-communicative professions. The study analyzes scholarly sources on academic writing, language culture, and professional communication, and outlines the features of writing practices among students of creative disciplines, taking into account the dominance of visual thinking. The main difficulties encountered in mastering academic writing are identified, including problems of text structuring, the use of professional terminology, the argumentation of design decisions, and adherence to the norms of academic style. Particular attention is paid to the relationship between visual and verbal modes of thinking, as well as to the possibilities of their integration in the educational process. Methodological approaches to the development of writing competence are proposed, combining academic text genres with project-based and visual activities of students. Examples of the use of contemporary digital tools, in particular generative artificial intelligence systems, are considered as means of developing verbal–visual competence and professional “bilingualism.” It is concluded that academic writing for architects and designers functions not only as a formal academic skill, but also as an intellectual tool for reflection, argumentation, and the presentation of creative ideas. The results of the study can be applied in teaching language and professional disciplines, as well as in the development of interdisciplinary educational courses in the fields of architecture and design. In the modern system of higher education, increasing attention is being paid to the development of students’ academic skills, particularly in written communication. Academic writing is viewed not only as a means of knowledge transmission, but also as a tool for fostering critical thinking, analytical abilities, academic integrity, and professional communicative competence. This is especially relevant for students of creative disciplines, for whom written expression is not always natural, as their professional practice is based primarily on visual thinking and non-verbal forms of communication.