1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of key aspects of the histories and theories of architecture, including the acquisition of a coherent and detailed knowledge of their technical, cultural and professional contexts, at least some of which is at or informed by, the forefront of defined aspects of the discipline.
Knowledge & Understanding

2. Demonstrate an understanding of the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of knowledge of the relevance of the fine arts on the theories and realisation of architecture, and its application in the conceptualisation and realisation of projects in studio.
Learning

3. Communicate and analyse information, ideas, problems, and solutions to both specialist and non-specialist audiences using a range of visual, written and verbal techniques to conceptualise, represent and communicate your ideas and completed work.
Communication

Assessment One -
In consultation with your tutor you will choose a subject that will sustain your interest. You are encouraged to relate your study to your studio work so that they reinforce each other in a creative and imaginative way. It is your responsibility to confirm the dates and times for individual tutorials and group seminars with your Tutors, but as a guide you should aim to be speaking to your tutor a minimum of once every week during this module, with a greater frequency as timetables permit at key times. You will be required to make a number
of formal submissions during this process, including, but not limited to, a draft programme, a presentation outline, and a draft of an agreed chapter or section of your final submission for Assessment 2.
You will be assessed on your engagement with this process. This assessment is worth 30% of the module mark.

Assessment Two -
At the end of the module you will produce and submit either
- a 6000 word written ‘dissertation’ on the subject agreed with your tutor.
- a 20 minute visual and verbal presentation to a panel followed by a 10-minute Q&A session & a 2500-word report.
In each case the final work will clearly articulate your position on the subject and demonstrate the depth of your research and understanding. All work will require appropriate referencing. This assessment is worth 70% of the module mark.

All learning outcomes have to be met in order to pass the module.

This module will require you to undertake a sustained and in-depth investigation into a specific subject area as part of a learning agreement made with the Module Tutor. Drawing on your growing knowledge of architectural history, theory, technology, urbanism and the arts, it will seek to expand and strengthen your competencies in intellectual inquiry, research, writing and presentation, and will encourage you to develop your own informed design agendas.

This module will include lectures & seminars on key texts in Architectural Theory; academic writing and research; individual and group tutorials on your chosen research project as agreed through negotiation; a study visit (optional); Film Club; and Book Club.

Scheduled Teaching & Learning Activities on this module will include presentations by module staff and outside specialists, specialist lectures, workshops and building visits. In addition, Guided Independent Study will include student lead presentations and feedback sessions.

Further support materials and information will be made available on Blackboard. Each session in studio will commence an introduction by the module tutor.

Brink-Budgen, R Van Den (2010); Fourth Edition., Critical Thinking for Students: Learn the Skills of critical Assessment and Effective Argument, Oxford., How to Books.

Ruedi, K & Borden, I (2014); Third Edition; The Dissertation: A Guide for Architecture Students; London., Architectural Press.

Indicative:
Davies, Colin (2011) Thinking About Architecture: An Introduction to Architectural Theory London, Laurence King
Ingold, Tim (2013) Making: Anthropology, Archaeology, Art and Architecture London, Routledge
Parker, Simon (2015) Urban Theory and the Urban Experience: Encountering the City (2nd edn.) London, Routledge London

Access to architecture studio. Access to computers with image editing and Microsoft 365 software. Access to Blackboard VLE, Microsoft Teams, and physical and remote access to Staffordshire University library resources including LinkedIn Learning.