History and Theory of Architecture 1

Overview

History & Theory of Architecture gives a theoretical background to architecture by exploring key buildings and spaces as well as significant principles, texts and thinkers. Architectural and cultural theory, produced by both architects and theorists alike, will be introduced and explored. The course also provides a platform for development of skills, including research methods, essay writing and critical thinking.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module, students will be able to/have:

Developed an awareness of the history and theory of architecture, its significance at the time & development over time.

An understanding of the influences of history and theory on spatial social and technological aspects of architecture.

Presented elementary information on historical examples in written and drawn form in a coherent and critical manner.

An ability to reflect on the influence of history, theory, arts and human sciences on the spatial, social, and technological aspects of architecture;

An understanding of the relationship between people and buildings, and between buildings and their environment, and the need to relate buildings and the spaces between them to human scale and needs.

An ability to structure critical views of architecture through reflective writing with appropriate referencing, research methods and use of intellectual language.

Skills

Visual analysis. Basic research and referencing skills. Essay writing skills. Critical thinking. Teamwork. Plagiarism awareness.

Assessment

75% attendance at lectures and discussions. 100% coursework. Preparedness with reading lists for discussion. Interactive group work skills sessions.