Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The module aim is to introduce students to history of architecture through a selection of historically and culturally significant architectural developments and to discuss what makes them significant. Students will learn to distinguish between monumental and vernacular architecture and to recognise and distinguish architectural style periods. Furthermore students will receive an oversight on the most important urban developments and the sociocultural contexts and how technology and its advancement influenced the shaping of cities. In this context students will be introduced to theories and philosophies behind particular influential developments and will learn to investigate and debate these developments.

A major aim is to convey contextual and holistic understanding and appreciation of historical architecture including the significance of traditional construction methods as well as functional and aesthetical achievements and developments. Students will be equipped with and encouraged to develop critical and analytical judgement on contemporary architecture and recent developments.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module is lecture and workshop based, but it will also contribute to the design projects of modules INU1114 and INU1115. Study and field trips provide students with a practical approach towards history and theory.

The module is introductory-level providing a general overview of world architecture in its historic context, using key works and epochs to establish a framework for continuing study and to develop an appreciation of traditions in built form. The module also comprises selected topics on principles and theories of architecture and urban development from the past to the present.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

By the end of this course students should be able to demonstrate an:
• awareness of architectural history as an academic discipline in the context of architectural practice
• awareness of the historical context of architectural design and appreciation of the achievements of builders and architects in the past
• understanding of the historical, cultural and social contexts which influenced architecture and urban development
• understanding of the most significant theories which influenced architecture internationally and nationally
• understanding of how method (investigation and preparation) informs design decisions.
• understanding of the relevance of architectural tradition, theory and history, which influence and inform architectural design processes

Intended Skill Outcomes

By the end of this course students should be able to:
• identify key works of architecture of various epochs, in order to access, synthesise and present information about them
• investigate, evaluate and critically analyse basic contexts and settings of architecture
• identify and choose appropriate modes of information exchange and communication
• produce structured and appropriate presentations
• apply computer and media based presentations
• develop case studies and express, discuss and present relevant research outcomes in essay form.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures provide theoretical contents and the weekly introduction to formative and summative tasks. Interactive seminar style small group teaching provides students with an opportunity to practice and to engage with contents. Lectures and seminars are interactive with opportunities for discussions and task guidance. Independent study provides students with an opportunity to research, to prepare for formative and summative tasks and extended self-guided study.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The case study essay assesses students’ ability to gather and synthesise materials in a specific area of architectural history. The final exam tests their overall knowledge of materials and of topics dealt with throughout the syllabus.

General Notes

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