Students following this module focus their research question around making and assembling an artefact, as a piece of research-through-practice, together with a 3500 word written essay in combination with the submission of the artefact., which it will frame and discuss theoretically. The module comprises 10 half-hour bi-weekly tutorials to develop an individual, integrated written and artefactual investigation with an assigned tutor; students develop a research question related to architecture or another field of environmental/spatial design. Students are expected to develop their ability to gather and synthesize data, as well as to analyse it in a coherent and convincing manner. In addition, they are expected to situate their own investigation in the broader context of architectural history, culture, and discourse.
Total contact hours: 10 hours
Private study hours: 290 hours
Total study hours: 300 hours
Main assessment methods
Artefact and Supporting Dissertation (100%)
Reassessment methods
Like for like
Indicative Reading List
Borden, I. & K. Ruedi (2006). The Dissertation: An Architecture Student's Handbook. Amsterdam: Architectural Press.
Mounsey, C. (2002). Essays and Dissertations. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
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 Knowledge of the cultural, social and intellectual histories, theories and technologies that influence the design of buildings.
2 Knowledge of the influence of history and theory on the spatial, social, and technological aspects of architecture.
3 Knowledge of how theories, practices and technologies of the arts influence architectural design
4 A critical understanding of how knowledge is advanced through research to produce clear, logically argued and original written work relating to architectural culture,
theory and design
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to demonstrate:
1 Problem solving skills, professional judgment, and ability to take the initiative and make appropriate decisions in complex and unpredictable circumstances
2 Independent thought about the subject and ability to rationalise the principal directions taken.
3 An ability to communicate effectively and well, using a range of communication skills
4 An ability to formulate a research proposal with its appropriate methodology
5 An ability to communicate and discuss cultural context topics effectively
6 An ability to synthesise information from a number of sources in order to gain a coherent understanding of theory and practice.
7 An ability to argue rationally and to draw independent conclusions based on a rigorous, analytical and critical approach to data, demonstration and argument.
8 An ability to evaluate research and a variety of types of information and evidence critically.
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