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 | Critical Practice – Theory | ||
Code | LARC504 | ||
Coordinator |
Ms J Muszbek Architecture J.Muszbek@liverpool.ac.uk |
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Year | CATS Level | Semester | CATS Value |
Session 2021-22 | Level 7 FHEQ | Whole Session | 20 |
Aims |
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The lecture series introduces a range of theoretical frameworks to conceptualise the profession and discipline of architecture, exploring both established and cutting-edge thinking with the aim of enhancing your judgment in understanding how contemporary architecture is shaped by knowledge and ideas. We have a Book Club where we will discuss three key texts in detail. By triangulating between the worlds of theory and practice we aim to develop your critical understanding of the agency of the architect in relation to others in the construction industry and creative economy, and the value architectural design skills can bring to the built environment and other fields. The manifesto is your opportunity to articulate a personal definition of your professional purpose, making conscious ambitions about your future trajectory, and encouraging commitment to an evolving framework or map in order to strategise a route to it. You will need to read, listen and research subject areas and t hemes in order to place yourself within the evolving network of practices. We ask you to interrogate various past, present and possible future forms of practice through reflections on lectures, seminars, informal and formal meetings and discussions with project teams, interviews, and so on to produce a manifesto: a sustained piece of writing of 3,000 words outlining your personal direction for architectural practice, with reference to professional, ethical and organisational influences. You are creating a piece of architectural culture. |
Learning Outcomes |
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(LO1) Interpret the influence of history and theory on the spatial, social and technological aspects of architecture (GC2.2) |
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(LO2) Appraise the nature of professionalism and the duties and responsibilities of architects to clients, building users, constructors, co-professionals and wider society (GC6.1) |
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(LO3) Relate the role of the architect to the larger design team and construction industry, with reference to current and emerging methods and trends in construction (GC6.2) |
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(LO4) Assess different organisational structures for operating ethically and successfully in practice, demonstrating knowledge of the management and business aspects of running both an architect’s office and architectural projects, within the context of a changing construction industry (GC11.3) |
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(LO5) Synthesize wide-ranging research to compose clear, logically argued and original written work that advocates a position in relation to architectural theory, culture and design (GA2.4) |
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(LO6) Determine individual learning needs and understand the personal responsibility required to prepare for qualification as an architect (GA2.7) |
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(S2) Research & information literacy skills: source, critically evaluate and attribute information with clarity and rigour |
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(S3) Communication skills: express ideas clearly, as well as listen to, present, challenge and defend ideas effectively both orally and in writing to meet the expectations of a professional working environment |
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(S6) Critical thinking skills: open-mindedness, critical awareness, ability to question, reflect, propose |
Syllabus |
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The two adjacent Critical Practice modules create a critical collision between speculation about architecture and speculating within architecture. This premise is at the heart of the LSA philosophy: that the dialogue between the process of designing and the trajectory of practising is common to the education of an architect at all stages of their career. Commencing with a briefing at the start of the year, the module is principally progressed through two lecture series, which present students with a diverse spectrum of inputs. The student’s personal direction for the Critical Practice Manifesto is developed through seminars and tutorials. Lecture Series One By examining the activity and outcome of architectural production, this lecture series seeks to uncover and propose different models of practice and praxis. It will look at established modes as well as those in the margins, in order for students to gain an underst
anding of where they might fit in, where their agenda lies and how they wish to operate. Lecture Series Two We are in a period of massive change brought on by many factors including technological developments, systemic breakdown (most obviously in climate change) and shifts in human values. The mechanistic reductionism and fragmentation of knowledge into specialist silos that characterised the modern age is proving inadequate to the complexly interlinked nature of the problems we face. Indicative lecture structure – 1. Understanding and participating in change |
Teaching and Learning Strategies |
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Students will learn through the following range of teaching and events – • A briefing introducing the key learning principles of the module. Scheduled learning and teaching – Description – Briefing, Lecture series: Methods and Models, Lecture series: Humanity and Planet, Seminars, Tutorials Guided independent study – Description – Directed activities and self- managed learning and extensive placement experience Total Learning Hours for the Module – 200 hours Attendance – 100% |
Teaching Schedule |
Lectures | Seminars | Tutorials | Lab Practicals | Fieldwork Placement | Other | TOTAL | |
Study Hours |
48 |
48 | |||||
Timetable (if known) |
120 mins X 1 totaling 48
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Private Study | 152 | ||||||
TOTAL HOURS | 200 |
Assessment |
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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 |
Manifesto – Final submission in the form of a written manifesto (3000-4000 words) Resit available – Yes, capped at the pass mark of 50% Coursework – Students investigate and interrogate various pas | 0 | 100 |
Recommended Texts |
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Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module. |