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Theory Research Project B

Unit code: DEN521
Contact hours: 2 per week
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs

Through this unit you will develop your research knowledge and capabilities in the context of Urban design.. Knowledge from this unit will be developed in parallel with DEN520 and demonstrated through application within the design studio.


Availability
Semester Available
2013 Semester 2 Yes

Sample subject outline - Semester 2 2012

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

Rationale

This unit is designed to expand and develop your knowledge and skills in urban design theory and research using a topic that relates closely to the Urban Design studio Project B [DEN520] for the semester. The selected topic will be of substance and significance, contributing to the School of Design database of research in urban theory and case studies relating to Shanghai as a post-event city.The knowledge gained in this Unit project will also assist and inform your urban design process and strategic thinking in DEN520.

Aims

The aim of this unit is to examine urban design theory using case study examples, exemplars of sustainable urban best practice, and contemporary theories. Students will expand their knowledge of how theory can influence and enhance practice in urban design by exploring a range of related topics around the given theme of post-event cities which can then be tested through strategies applied in Urban Design Studio B [DEN510].

Objectives

On completion of this unit you should be able to:
1. Research and generate a report on a substantial urban design theory topic incorporating aspects of best practice for urban design and master planning
2. Demonstrate knowledge urban theory and it translation into design practice through the generation of a detailed design report
3. Demonstrate knowledge of different urban theories, comparing and contrasting those from other studies within the group
4. Utilise knowledge of appropriate urban theories through design studio activities.

Content

The focus of the semester will complement the theme and focus in DEN520.

You will be assigned to an advisor/tutor approved by the Unit Coordinator. In general, the advisor/tutor will provide guidance on the selection of topic, investigation and research, and preparation of the proposals and submission.

Your theory research project will be completed and presented to a professional standard. Assessment will be by the Unit coordinator and one other staff member approved by the Head of School.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

Teaching Mode:
Tutorial: 2 hours per week

Learning Approaches
Self directed study with regular weekly meetings with the nominated tutors and other student members of the Unit group.
There will be at least 3 presentation tutorials attended by the Unit coordinator and other invited guests

Seminars and discussion groups.

Learning approaches will cover the following:

  • Problem based urban topics
  • Self-learning
  • Individual learning
  • Team based learning
  • Experiential learning
  • Reflective
  • Exposition
  • Presentation

    Assessment

    The assessment is based on your individual response to selecting, developing and investigating a topical urban theory problem or area of research inquiry relating to the Urban Design Studio themes for the semester.

    You will be assessed firstly, on your communication skills in sharing this knowledge with your peers and invited guest (who may be experts in related fields); and secondly, on your written skills through the report.

    QUT's Assessment Policy is at MOPP c/5.1Formative:
    You will receive formative feedback through regular meetings with the tutors. Wider feedback is provided through the research seminars held toward the end of semester.

    Summative:
    1. 40% Individual verbal presentation with supporting media on an appropriate topic.
    2. 60% Individual written report of topic/project in hard copy A4 format and digital copy

    Assessment name: Presentation (Oral or Group)
    Description: Verbal presentation appropriate Urban Research Project.
    Relates to objectives: 1. Research and generate a report on a substantial urban design theory topic incorporating aspects of best practice for urban design and master planning
    2. Demonstrate knowledge urban theory and it translation into design practice through the generation of a detailed design report
    3. Demonstrate knowledge of different urban theories, comparing and contrasting those from other studies within the group
    4. Utilise knowledge of appropriate urban theories through design studio activities.
    Weight: 40%
    Internal or external: Internal
    Group or individual: Individual
    Due date: Mid to Late Semester

    Assessment name: Report
    Description: Written Report - Appropriate Urban Research Project
    Relates to objectives: 1. Research and generate a report on a substantial urban design theory topic incorporating aspects of best practice for urban design and master planning
    2. Demonstrate knowledge urban theory and it translation into design practice through the generation of a detailed design report
    3. Demonstrate knowledge of different urban theories, comparing and contrasting those from other studies within the group
    4. Utilise knowledge of appropriate urban theories through design studio activities.
    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

    Required Texts: Nil

    References:
    QUT Blackboard unit site; Cite and Write; QUT Library

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    Risk assessment statement

    There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.

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

    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: 01-Jun-2012