As a result of her study of architecture combined with the study of law, Dr. Dronen has contributed to certain crucial aspects of the architecture curriculum, especially as to regulatory land use issues as explored in the Urban Design Studio.
Recent research has focused on SmartCode development and implementation, case law involving substantive land use decisions, and the United States Constitution and property rights. Education and continued research has allowed for the opportunity to engage students in the design studio to thoughtfully consider legal implications of design decisions. Elective offerings (such as Legal Issues in Architecture, Land Use and the Constitution, as well as Land use Analysis) seek to encourage students to critically analyze the role of the law in architecture and planning.