This course provides stage one students with an introduction into ancient and medieval architecture, predominantly Western. It will include a series of weekly lectures based on different key episodes in architectural history, supplying the students with both the historical information that will form the foundation for their future studies, as well as with a grasp of basic architectural concepts and ways of discussing and presenting them. Typical forms of historic building technologies will be discussed, together with their relevance to current technologies.
Total contact hours: 25 hours
Private study hours: 125 hours
Total study hours: 150 hours
Main assessment methods
Cultural Context Examination (3 hours) (100%)
Reassessment methods
Reassessment Instrument: 100% coursework
Indicative Reading List
Fazio, Michael, Moffett, Marian, Wodehouse, Laurence (1st ed. 2003; 2nd ed. 2008). A World History of Architecture. London: Laurence King
Fletcher, Sir Bannister. (1996). History of Architecture. London: CBS Publishers
Kostof, Spiro. (1995). A History of Architecture, Settings and Rituals. Oxford: Oxford University Press
Summerson, John. (2008 ed.). The Classical Language of Architecture. London: Thames & Hudson
Watkin, David. (2005, 4th ed.). A History of Western Architecture. London: Laurence King
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to demonstrate:
1 A basic knowledge of the cultural, social and intellectual histories, theories and technologies that influence the design of buildings
2 A basic knowledge of the influence of history and theory on the spatial, social, and technological aspects of architecture
3 A basic knowledge of how theories, practices and technologies of the arts influence architectural design
4 A basic knowledge of the creative application of the fine arts and their relevance and impact on architecture
5 A basic understanding of the need to critically review precedents relevant to the function, organisation and technological strategy of design proposals
6 An awareness of concepts of historical change
7 An awareness of the Western tradition of design
8 A knowledge of the historical development of European architecture, and of its relationship to the English mainstream
9 A knowledge of key buildings from Western architectural history
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to demonstrate:
1 An ability to apply a modest range of communication methods and media to present design proposals clearly and effectively
2 An ability to evaluate evidence, arguments and assumptions in order to make and present sound judgments within a structured discourse relating to architectural
culture, theory and design.
3 An ability to assimilate material from a variety of sources and to contextualise information
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