This module invites students to engage deeply with discussions, experiments, and innovations centred on theoretical and pedagogical perspectives in architecture. It aims to deepen their theoretical knowledge, and expand their methodological skills, enabling them to design their own research investigations. Students will critically observe and analyse a specific practice, situating it within a relevant theoretical or pedagogical framework. They will design a research experiment- either teaching-focused or research-based- to interrogate and expand on this practice, drawing upon and actively engaging with key theoretical paradigms. The final output will be a scientific or artistic research product, fostering a diverse range of creative and intellectual approaches.
The module framework will emphasize critical reflection on contemporary theoretical trends, challenging students to explore how these frameworks can be developed, adapted, or moderated to suit specific contexts or situations. General cohort-level lectures, complemented by focused seminars and one-on-one guidance from tutors, will nurture the development of diverse topics and experimental projects. Building on their Stage 4 studies students will develop a proposal for their research experiment, inspired by existing theoretical discourses, professional insights, or teaching experiences. This approach will encourage innovative inquiry while fostering individual intellectual growth and creative research investigations.
Lectures 8 hours
Seminars 16 hours
Reviews 3 hours
Workshop (research workshop) (2 per term) 6
Summer
These assessments have been designed to be accessible in-line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The course emphasises authentic assessments to evaluate the fulfilment of learning outcomes, promoting student engagement through real-world experiments, while developing students' research and analytical skills.
Students’ work is assessed through two main components: an oral presentation and research outputs, weighted at 30% and 70%, respectively. These assessments aim to measure both academic progress and practical application for research activities. The oral presentation requires a timed, in-person delivery incorporating written, visual materials, and physical artefact (where appropriate). It is assessed based on the quality of research, the rigor of ideas, and the coherence of both visual and verbal communication according to clearly specified criteria. The second assessment entails submitting an illustrated essay, and for some projects, a report, and/or artefact.
This work is formally evaluated against clearly identified assessment criteria including, for example, methods, analysis, critical reflection, and output qualities. Assessment methods in this module are designed to cater to a variety of learning styles and provide detailed, actionable feedback to support both individual and collaborative development throughout the module.
Written
Essay - Research Project+ Report (5,000 words)
Or
2,500 words and report
Worth 70%.
Practical
Presentation - Oral Presentation (30 minutes). Worth 30%.
Reassessment methods
Like-for-like
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages: https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html
On successfully completing the module, students will:
1) Critically evaluate the cultural, social and intellectual theories and their influence on architectural practices, research trends, and pedagogical approaches.
2) Advanced understanding of how research advances knowledge, demonstrating critical approaches to current trends and their adaptability in reflection to design and teaching practices.
3) Develop advanced research skills by synthesizing information from diverse theoretical resources and engaging with innovative mixed-method approaches to encourage impactful research within the field.
4) Independently design research experiments based on topics of interest, and construct rational arguments grounded in a rigorous and critical approach to data.
5) Effectively communicate research ideas through a range of oral and written skills, as well as the design of research artifacts, to produce clear and logically argued work.
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