Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The Linked Research module is a unique feature of the MArch curriculum and spans the two Stages of the M.Arch enabling year-long collaborative research projects involving both staff and students.

The aim of the Linked Research module is to provide students with the opportunity to work collaboratively with research active staff in the School and to take part in live research projects. The module enables approaches that extend beyond the conventional studio design project or the ‘lone researcher’ dissertation model allowing space for multiple and speculative forms of research. Each year a number of projects are offered that are varied and are often open-ended and collaborative and, because they are long term and involve groups working together, they can enable participatory projects and large-scale production with partners from inside and outside of the University. Linked research projects are varied usually involve a wide range of methods, approaches and outputs

Linked research aims to enable students to gain experience of research through working directly with experienced researchers, to foster greater awareness of research and its importance in architecture and to develop a range of research skills and knowledge of methodologies.

ARC8058 is the first of two linked modules and aims to introduce students to appropriate research methods and approaches and to conduct initial research that is then developed and declared through ARC8068 in the following semester.

Outline Of Syllabus

Each year a number of linked research projects are offered by members of staff. Individual linked research projects are distinct and will involve different agendas, methods and outcomes. A detailed introduction to the scope of each project is provided at the end of semester 1 to enable students to make an informed choice about which project(s) they wish to pursue in semester 2.

ARC8058 focusses on establishing a viable research project and supporting activities including literature reviews, case studies, archival research, interviews, design-work, prototyping, community engagement etc. The module culminates in the production of a research proposal that is subsequently developed and declared through ARC8068.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of the module students should have knowledge of generic research skills and methods relevant to architecture. This will be complemented by knowledge of the specific theme of the linked research project.

Knowledge outcomes will vary according to individual projects but overarching outcomes will include:

•       The knowledge, understanding, intellectual abilities and practical skills required to establish a viable research project.
•       Enhanced subject knowledge and the ability to select appropriate research methodologies and approaches
•       An ability to apply relevant knowledge(s) to practical situations
•       An ability to identify, seek and manage a diverse range of relevant information and to establish clear objectives and research questions.

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of the module students should have an understanding of research approaches and specific research skills appropriate to the topic. The ability to contribute to a research project and conduct research within an established framework, including how to work effectively as part of a team in group research projects. Students will learn how to formulate research questions and to present initial research ideas.

Skills outcomes will vary according to project but will include:

•       The qualities and approach required to be an effective participant in establishing a collaborative research project
•       The ability to develop a research proposal
•       The ability to clearly, logically and imaginatively communicate research ideas and a research proposal
•       The ability to critically reflect upon and evaluate the early phases of the research process and to establish a plan of work for the next stages of research (to be undertaken and concluded in ARC8068).

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The precise allocation of teaching activities to the 200 hour total will vary depending on the nature of the Linked Research project.

The teaching methods will vary according to project and details of the approach will be included as part of project briefing sessions / inductions.

Set hours will be dedicated to cross-group sharing activities and events, to allow for cross-learning between groups and for sharing of research methods and approaches. These will be delivered in person when permitted and use digital technology for sharing and recording of sessions.

There is inherent flexibility in the module owing to the size and structure of the project groupings (max. size 10 students), and research practices can be adapted to fit permitted interactions at the time. Groups will be expected to deliver in-person teaching, supplemented with session recording and sharing where appropriate. Some groups are by nature ‘live’ and these will involve working in close proximity with communities and collaborators. These will deploy digital technology to accommodate for different needs and public health concerns as and when they arise.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The type of assessment component will vary according to the Linked research project type. Group dissertation projects will consist of a written research proposal / extended synopsis. Creative practice and design research projects may take the form of a design report, reflective log or a portfolio.

Students will be informed of the particular nature of assessment components when selecting projects and the outset of the module.

General Notes

This module makes it possible for different researchers to offer students direct experience of real research projects. Topics and mode of engagement will vary.