Contemporary Landscape Theory

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

170 hours

Admission into a course at the Melbourne School of Design.

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

This subject was formerly called Contemporary Theory & Australian Landscape.

This subject explores contemporary theories and modes of critique relating to the modern designed landscape. The lectures and readings introduce and examine significant 20th and early 21st century theoretical writings and design treatises. This will include the contextualization of landscape architecture against theoretical developments in allied design fields including urban design, architecture and the visual arts. Assignments and class papers require students to critically engage with a broad range of theoretical positions, and relate them to built works.

On completion of the subject students should be able to:

• Demonstrate an introductory knowledge of influential landscape architectural theories of the 20th and early 21st centuries;
• Research a particular landscape architectural theory for critical debate and understand its translation into design practice;
• Contextualize developments within Australasian landscape architectural practice against internationally significant theoretical developments;
• Understand landscape architecture theory in relationship to developments in allied design disciplines such as urban design and architecture;
• Develop critical thinking, research and writing abilities.

Assignment One: Reflective essay, due week 5, 20%, 1000 words

Assignment 2a: Annotated Bibliography, due week 7, 20%, 1000 words

Assignment 2b: Final essay, due week 12, 60%, 3000 words

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

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

• Research
• Critical analysis
• Writing