Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

To critically explore, and gain knowledge and understanding of, theories underpinning alternative practices in architecture and planning.
To critique mainstream approaches to professional practice in the built environment.
To test theories of alternative practice in relation to ‘real world’ case studies.
To encourage the student to articulate a position in relation to the theoretical contexts of alternative practice in architecture and planning.

Outline Of Syllabus

Review of critical theories pertaining to architecture and planning, to include: Marxist and neo-Marxist approaches (for example, Harvey), pragmatist approaches (Rorty), Poststructuralist approaches (for example Foucault; Derrida), postcolonial theories, (Fanon, Said and Bhabba), theories of democracy and their application (for example, participatory design, collaborative planning and community architecture), alternatives to market-centred interventions- mutualism, co-operatives etc.; professionalism and anti-professionalism (for example, Jacobs, Till); and ideas of rights, including rights to the city. Each theme will be illustrated with case study approaches from practice.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

Demonstrate an understanding of the role and responsibilities of architects, landscape architects, urban designers, and planners in working collaboratively, promoting principles of equality, and engaging with communities in brief preparation, design and planning processes. Evaluate arguments for intervention in the built environment and an understanding of processes for change and the role of professionals in achieving it.

Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities of issues and problems pertaining to the built environment including adequate knowledge of planning, and the skills involved in the planning process as well as the influence of the design and development of cities, past and present on the contemporary built environment.

Demonstrate knowledge of histories and theories of architecture and cities, related arts, and planning to influence the quality of design and place, including knowledge and understanding of theories underpinning alternative practice in architecture and planning.

Demonstrate an understanding of theory and make appropriate connections between theory and practice.

Demonstrate a critical understanding of values and ethics in built environment intervention.

Intended Skill Outcomes

Define and analyse problems effectively and appropriately.
Make effective use of evidence and information.
Articulate reasoned arguments.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The Structured Guided Learning Activities provide a detailed explanation of the key issues and an examination of important literature. The Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities provide support for discussions about the application of the techniques to planning issues. The Guided Independent Study will enable students to both achieve the intended knowledge and skills outcomes identified for the module, as well as enabling to help them prepare for the creation of their assessment submission. This MOF is based on a blended learning approach and includes a mixture of online learning and present in person (PiP) provision

The module will include 11 lectures which will provide an overview of the key issues and theories along with relevant case studies.

These lectures and podcasts will provide the starting place for the teaching scaffold. Firstly, after attending the lectures or watching the pre-recorded ‘lecture’ podcats, students will then be asked to engage with
a)       3 hours of Guided independent study – involving reading and/or visual materials
b)       And a 2-hour reading task on their own

As well as the lectures/podcasts and the associated reading, (including the individual and group reading tasks) students will then take part in a series of PiP workshops. These workshops provide structured discussion of particular issues through a mixture of small-group tasks and plenary discussion.

From the lectures/podcasts, through the reading tasks and the workshops students will be able to scaffold their learning. The workshops in particular will allow students to apply what they have learnt in the lectures/podcasts (and guided independent study) to contemporary issues within town planning and architecture.
Q and A sessions and drop in surgery sessions will be available throughout the course so that students can gain easy access to a tutor.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities provide support for discussions about the application of the techniques to planning issues. The Guided Independent Study will enable students to both achieve the intended knowledge and skills outcomes identified for the module, as well as enabling to help them prepare for the creation of their assessment submission.

There is one assessments for this module. This a 3500 essay which will test the students’ ability to assemble and synthesize appropriate information to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of alternative practice theory in architecture and planning.

General Notes

This module contributes towards delivering the following RIBA/ARB Prescription Criteria for Qualifications: GC2.1/2; GC3.1; GC4.1/2; GC6.3; GA.4

This module contributes towards delivering the following RTPI Accreditation Learning Outcomes for Qualifications:

Spatial - 5; 11; 13
Specialist - 1