History and Theory of Architecture 3

Overview

This module will provide an introduction to urban history and theory. It will present key ideas about the cultural, social, economic and political factors that shape the spatial and built structure of cities. It will highlight the significance of historic urban landscapes while interpreting the practice of urban design aesthetics and technologies. The focus will be on the relationship between architecture and the city, the role of buildings in the urban fabric and the complexity of context.

Learning Objectives

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

Have an understanding of the complexity of contemporary urban landscapes and their historical and theoretical encounters.

Have a knowledge and understanding of how cultural, social and intellectual histories as well as urban history and theory can impact on practice and design.

Demonstrate an understanding of architectural and urban developments with special reference to specific themes and movements.

Demonstrate an understanding of the contribution of the architect and co-professionals to the formation of briefs in diverse scales including building and urban scale.

Have an ability to describe, analyse and synthesise structured arguments and present them in written, graphic and oral form using scholarly research methods (including essay writing, bibliography and referencing).

Skills

Ability to describe, analyse and synthesise concepts and ideas and communicate them in written form;
Ability to carry out basic research methods;
Ability to correctly reference and compose a bibliography;
Ability to present a conceptual development to an audience;

Assessment

A minimum of 75% attendance at lectures; 100% coursework.