Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 2 2012

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

Design is the core activity of architecture, and the architectural design studio is a major component of the architecture course. As the 'capstone' design project of the Bachelor of Design (Architectural Studies) degree, the unit draws on the breadth of knowledge you have attained through the process of your architectural education. As such this advanced architectural design unit deals with synthesis and integration of knowledge as applied to the urban environment through the solution of a complex design problem.

Aims

This unit aims to integrate the knowledge you have acquired regarding architectural design into an advanced design solution. Emphasis will be placed on the application of environmental sustainability methods combined with digital tools in complex design problems.

Objectives

On completion of this unit you should be able to demonstrate:

1. Resolution of a complex architectural design problem, through critical, creative and analytical thinking.
   
2. Your understanding of cities and an awareness of the forces shaping their development.
   
3. An ability to integrate environmental sustainability into advanced building design.
   
4. The use of digital tools with advanced building design.
   
5. Represent and communicate ideas and concepts of an architectural and urban nature through the use of a variety of advanced representation techniques, including the use of the computer, physical modelling, and advanced documentation skills.

Content

The major topics to be covered in this unit include the synthesis of:
- Urban analysis
- Sustainable urbanism
- Advanced design method (process, evaluation and resolution) incorporating digital tools.
- Formal issues and generation
- Advanced Presentation Techniques

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

Teaching Mode: Hours per week: 4
Lecture: 1 hour
Studio/Tutorial: 3 hours

Learning approaches:
Your learning in this unit will be fostered predominately by problem-based learning exercises, delivered in a studio setting. Your work in the design studio will be supported by formal lectures, group tutorials, and desk critiques of your work. On occasion you will be required to display your work for critiques in a group setting, giving you the opportunity to explain your ideas and their implementation in your work. Formative feedback will be given at key times throughout the semester to foster the development of problem-based learning projects. On occasion guest critics will be invited to expand your opportunities for feedback. The use of the J-block workshop will be strongly promoted as emphasis will be placed on testing design ideas.

Assessment

The assessments will require you to demonstrate a coherent design process that results in the resolution of a complex design problem.Formative and Summative assessment will be used. Formative assessment provides you with information about your progress and how your work can be improved. Summative assessment focuses on outcome, standard and comparison with criteria. You will be provided with a Criterion-Referenced Assessment sheet as a guide.

Assessment name: Poster Presentation
Description: Graphic representation of argument/ concept/ idea.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2 & 5
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Mid Semester

Assessment name: Design Project
Description: Advanced level building design integrated into urban context.
Relates to objectives: 1,2,3,4 & 5
Weight: 60%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: End of Semester

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

No Set text
The unit content will be drawn from a number of references and a reading list will be placed on unit Blackboard site. You are encouraged to undertake your own research to supplement your knowledge of Architectural Design.

Materials
You may be required to purchase the usual range of drawing and model-making materials sufficient to complete all project work.

Risk assessment statement

In this unit you will undertake lectures and tutorials in the traditional classrooms and lecture theatre. As such, there are no extraordinary workplace health and safety issues associated with these components of the unit.

The unit may require you to partake in a field trip, of a supervised or self guided nature. A risk assessment for the trip has identified only low impact risks. You will be provided with relevant safety guidelines prior to any field trip. You will be required to obey all safety guidelines and directions while attending field trips.

Health & Safety Inductions
Students are required to complete, if not already previously completed, the following Inductions / Certificates
1. General Safety Induction (completed online)
2. J-Block Workshop

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 30-May-2012