Theories of Architecture

Subject 702-305 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 3 (Undergraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

Semester 1, - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable


Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Total Time Commitment: Not available
Prerequisites:

A level-2 history of architecture subject.
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Coordinator

Ms Annmarie Brennan
Subject Overview:

This subject introduces students to a history of theories in architecture in the modern era from the pre-war decades to the present. It introduces theories available in English and those which have significantly influenced design practice in the West and parts of the Asia-Pacific region from the 1920s and 1950s to the present. Development of ideas in other regions and times may be explored by students in relation to these theories. In general this subject provides a temporal, historical and socio-political perspective in which contemporary anxieties, polemics and strategies can be understood. This shall prepare students for their own inquiry and for a development of their own design and critical positions in the following years.

On completion of the subject students should be able to:

  • have an introductory knowledge of the major architectural theories of the modern era in the West and parts of Asia
  • investigate a particular architectural theory for critical debate and to develop it for their own design practice
Assessment:
  • Research Paper - 2500 words
  • Manifesto Paper - 1500 words
  • Bi-weekly summaries of subject readings (approx. 250 words)
  • Class participation and attendance
The 2500 word Research Paper is a hurdle requirement. Students need to attain a minimum grade of 50% in the Research Paper (which includes bibliography, draft and final draft) in order to pass the subject overall.
Prescribed Texts: None
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

On completion of the subject students should have developed skills in:

  • research
  • critical analysis
  • writing
  • some experience with group work
Links to further information: http://www.abp.unimelb.edu.au/environments-and-design-students/abp-ugrad-students.html
Related Course(s): Diploma in Arts (Social Theory)
Related Majors/Minors/Specialisations: Architectural History Major
Social Theory Major

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