Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title ARCHITECTURAL THEORIES FROM 1900 TO THE PRESENT
Code ARCH712
Coordinator Dr C Malathouni
Architecture
C.Malathouni@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2020-21 Level 7 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

The module aims to introduce a broad framework of architectural concepts, themes and theories that have influenced the field of architecture globally from 1900 to the present. This framework can then serve as the critical foundation for design modules as well as the final 60-credit design project or dissertation.

The module also aims to introduce study, research and writing skills and methodologies and to link rigorous academic practices to real world and employment-related scenarios. Finally, the module aims to provide opportunities for the development of presentation, teamwork and time management skills via a variable and flexible seminar series and multiple activities throughout the semester.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Identify a range of theories that have been influential in the field of architecture from 1900 onwards.

(LO2) Recognise and discuss the significance and evolution of key concepts and themes and how these reflect the development of architectural trends from 1900 onwards.

(LO3) Evaluate the content and different perspectives of various written architectural sources.

(LO4) Research, situate historically, critique and present visually and verbally – orally and in writing – the relationship of specific theories to relevant built or unbuilt architectural projects or to the oeuvre of an architect or an architectural practice.

(LO5) Plan and manage a written project.

(LO6) Prepare a well-documented, referenced and appropriately illustrated academic essay.

(LO7) Use well-documented and referenced research in a shorter written format appropriate for real life or employment-related purposes.

(S1) Reading, research and writing skills.

(S2) Critical thinking skills.

(S3) Visual and verbal communication skills.

(S4) Teamwork skills.

(S5) Time management skills.


Syllabus

 

The module syllabus commences with an introduction to the principal tenets of Modernism, one of the most influential architectural developments in the early decades of the twentieth century. In parallel to key concepts and texts, it briefly discusses links to earlier approaches that led to modernism, particular strands within modernism, as well as significant diversions from mainstream modernism.

The rest of the syllabus will review subsequent development of, or challenges to, modernist positions. These will be organised under broad thematic headings and the discussion will be largely comparative, juxtaposing the wide range of alternative approaches within these themes. In addition to key concepts, theories, and texts, the module will review landmark architectural figures, projects and events that relate to the theoretical positions discussed.

Selected topics, texts and projects may vary from year to year but will broadly cover the following themes: modernism; form, spac e, place; post-modernism; Deconstructivism; human identities; nature, environment, sustainability and ecologies; cities and urbanism.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Most weekly sessions through the semester will be structured as combined lecture and seminar sessions.
Each lecture will introduce the themes for readings and discussion in the following week.
The first weekly session will also cover study and research skills, as well as an introduction to resources available in the University and elsewhere. (This will be supplemented by a Library workshop later in the semester, probably around week 7.)
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Seminar
Description: Most weekly sessions through the semester will be structured as combined lecture and seminar sessions.
All seminars will include guided discussion on themes introduced in the lecture the week before. All students will be expected to do pre-selected readings and participate in discussion in the classroom.
There will also be a Library workshop, probably around week 7.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teach ing Method 3 - Large and small group tutorial
Description: In a selected week, students will be expected to contribute to a group presentation on their chosen coursework topic. This will then be part of a large group tutorial on research and presentation skills.
The final week of the semester will be dedicated to small group tutorials on the students’ individual coursework, further supporting the development of research and writing skills.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Self-directed learning: Readings for weekly seminars; online training for referencing and academic integrity; research and presentation preparation for group tutorials; research and reading and writing for final coursework.


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 10

12

4

    2

28
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 122
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Group presentation of essay topics. This is not an anonymous assessment.  30 minutes         
Essay Description: Essay and real world/ employment related summary. There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment.  3,000 words essay; a    100       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.