Ursula Exss Cid

Ursula Exss Cid is an Associate Professor and Academic Secretary at the School of Architecture and Design of the Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso (PUCV), where she conducts research and teaches architectural design. Holding dual PhDs in Architecture and Urban Studies from PUCV (2007) and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile (2018), she is also a member of the research team 'Education, Space, and Learning' at the e(ad) PUCV Graduate School.

Her primary research focuses on the relationship between architecture and educational spaces from theoretical-historical perspectives, particularly examining school architecture developed around Chile's 1965 educational reform. She employs qualitative research methods including observation, dense description, and drawing as analytical tools, integrating diverse primary sources such as architectural works, archival documents, and oral testimonies.

Analysis of her recent publications (2022-2024) reveals consistent engagement with Chilean architectural history, particularly school architecture and urban design from the mid-20th century. Her work explores the connections between educational programs and spatial design, examining how traditional and alternative pedagogies (Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia) relate to specific spatial practices and school timeframes. Her research demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections between architecture, education, and urban studies.

Scientific Recognition:

• Distinguished Research Award in the Professional Category at the 21st Architecture and Urbanism Biennial in Chile (2019)

As an educator, Professor Exss has directed numerous undergraduate theses focusing on educational spaces, community architecture, and school design. Her teaching includes foundational courses in architectural observation and advanced workshops on creative project communication. She actively participates in research projects funded by Chilean national research grants, including the Fondecyt Initiation project no. 11200884 on educational spaces. Her work extends to public engagement through exhibitions, workshops, and social connections including the 'Reimaginar la escuela' project (2024).

Professor Exss maintains active professional connections through ORCID, LinkedIn, ResearchGate, Google Scholar, and ANID Research Portal, reflecting her engagement with both national and international academic communities.