What will I learn on this module?
This module is the realisation of the design thesis project, which will engage you as an independent learner in the development of a complex and integrated design proposal, based on the inquiry undertaken in dp3. During this phase of the year-long thesis project you will engage in a rigorous design process, developing your concept (established in dp3) into a coherent and complex design solution. With support from your design tutors you will utilise the skills and knowledge learnt during your education to date, and you will be expected to engage with an increased level of complexity and criticality that involves, amongst other exploration: an engagement with context (physical, poetic, theoretical); research into precedents and building typologies (spatial, and organisational); development of building programme, building form, spatial sophistication, materiality and appropriate detail, working together in an integrated and holistic way; consideration of regulatory and legal constraints; technological choices and comparisons and coherently communicated through verbal, written and graphical (both 2 and 3D formats)- all commensurate with level 7 scholarship.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through project-based inquiry within the studio, and engagement with individual and group tutorials supported by tutorials, workshops, project focused seminars and site visits. You will demonstrate your independent learning skills to manage your design process and development supported by academic staff as facilitators.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported with weekly guidance during tutorials, where you will discuss the development of your ideas and solutions to the brief that you developed in dp3. You will benefit from regular progress reviews (usually on a monthly basis) as part of a rigorous formative assessment strategy on an individual and group basis. You will be encouraged to participate in discussions about your work, your development and that of your peers. Feedback on formative and summative assignments will be offered in verbal, written and drawn format, which will provide advice for further development and a critical appraisal of your work and performance. Project material will be available on the eLearning Portal (ELP) so that you can access information when you need to and we operate an open door policy to help support student learning when it is needed most. The university library offers support for all students through its catalogue and an Ask4Help Online service.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
KU 1. Develop and elucidate a personal engagement with the ethical, professional and social responsibilities of a design professional within a multi-disciplinary environment
KU 2. Express a critical perspective on, and an appreciation of contemporary influences on design, through study of related theoretical and cultural issues of architecture, the arts, urban design and related disciplines
KU 3. Demonstrate a systematic understanding, synthesis and creative application of related theories, arts, technologies, properties, processes and legislative controls, which recognises human well-being and the conservation of the global environment for future generations
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
IPSA 1. Demonstrate the application of the broader issues of management in the design and creation of buildings;
IPSA 2. Evaluate, propose and use appropriate visual, verbal and written communication methods and appropriate media to represent the testing, analysis, critical appraisal and resolution of design problems.
IPSA 3. Demonstrate an advanced level of skill and confidence in developing a design response.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
PVA 1. Exhibit high levels of skill in independent learning through research and advanced scholarship within the discipline of architecture, to critically evaluate current issues and alternative approaches; integrate sources of information, make sound judgements and propose solutions to problems.
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment will take place within regular tutorials and at interim reviews to provide ongoing developmental guidance and reflection.
Feedback will be offered in an oral, written and drawn form, which will promote analysis, enquiry and self-directed research from the student. Reviews and peer learning will be used to encourage reflective practice.
Summative assessment will take place at the end of the semester. Written feedback will be provided to aid future learning and study.
Project based activities reflect authentic practice, and demand a portfolio output demonstrating communication skills and showing the development of critical evaluation, brief development, and creative application of design, technology and management knowledge.
Summative assessment will be moderated.
Moderation of summative assessment will take place in portfolio reviews at the end of the module.
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
In this module, you have the opportunity to produce and communicate a coherent, complex and resolved architectural design, to display skill and creativity and knowledge, utilising appropriate visual, oral and written communication methods and media.
You will develop proposals for your own site and brief to use as a vehicle for independent study. The module will be studied through the development of a complex design solution. Learning will be supported by contributions from a range of built environment professionals, using a combination of lectures, tutorials, reviews and peer learning.
You will conduct independent research and critical evaluation of the context, programme, and relevant issues in order to produce authentic developed proposals, supported by design, technology, management and process reports. This portfolio of work will be assessed against agreed criteria for the specific project.
Course info
Credits 50
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 2 years full-time
Department Architecture and Built Environment
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2024
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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