The module aims to explore in detail a changing current issue in contemporary architectural design. Visiting tutors engaged in professional practice or academia bring an external (often international) perspective to the area of study. A theme associated with a specific building type (e.g. education, healthcare, housing, commerce) or a theoretical agenda (e.g. architecture and tourism) identifies the thrust of the project. An overseas study trip with a visiting tutor and module staff forms a catalyst for the project. Research and exploration is undertaken in groups to determine the focus of the design agenda. Projects can be developed into a specific building design, an urban strategy, or a theoretical architectural agenda. Students submit drawings, reports and models/constructions that are presented to review panels for open forum discussion.

(LO1) Knowledge and awareness of important contemporary architectural and urban design issues and precedents.

(LO2) The ability to prepare designs, concepts, strategies that relate to and satisfy the ambitions of the project.

(LO3) The ability to select and utilise appropriate visual, oral and written methods that will effectively communicate complex architectural theories, concepts and designs.

(LO4) Additional learning outcomes are specifically identified in the course notes for what is inherently a regularly changing agenda. A lecture presentation series and associated study tour signals the direction of the research and the design project.

(S1) Improving own learning/performance - Reflective practice

(S2) Time and project management - Personal organisation

(S3) Information skills - Information accessing:[Locating relevant information] [Identifying and evaluating information sources]

(S4) Research skills - All Information skills

(S5) Personal attributes and qualities - Initiative

(S6) Critical thinking and problem solving - Creative thinking

The precise study focus will vary from year to year, depending on agenda of the course, and the site and project brief. However, lectures, seminars and group project work will be used to explore the theory and practice of a contemporary issue of importance. Past themes have been, conservation in a historic city (eg Bologna), social housing (Merseyside ), embassies (Germany), eco-housing (UK). Visiting tutors from esteemed professional practice or academia bring critical agendas to lead the focus of the project. A European study tour during which dedicated research and site visits are undertaken at the very beginning of the project, forms a catalyst for its development. Lectures take place at weekly intervals as required. Tutorials take place at weekly intervals. Two critical reviews take place during the duration of the project. Formative assessment presentation takes place towards the end of the project but several weeks prior to final submission.

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description:
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: lectures introduce the project and inform its development

Teaching Method 2 - Seminar
Description:
Attendance Recorded: Not yet decided
Notes: seminars involve group negotiaion around shared project topics

Teaching Method 3 - Tutorial
Description:
Attendance Recorded: Not yet decided
Notes: tutorials support the individual or group design work

Teaching Method 4 - Field Work
Description:
Attendance Recorded: Not yet decided
Notes: a non-mandatory visit takes place to sites/places of interest pertinent to the projct aims