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THEORIES OF ARCHITECTURE AND URBANISM
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The subject offers a thematic inquiry into architectural and urban theory in the broader context of philosophical schools of thought and cultural and social conditions, which may include modernism, postmodernism, phenomenology, semiotics, post-structuralism, deconstruction and critical regionalism. These themes will guide the organization of weekly lecture and discussions, which will proceed from the establishment of a basic theoretical apparatus to the examination of specific cases. These will supply us with tools for the analysis of specific architectural situations. Students will develop a written synopsis of a designated reading, and an in-depth and analytical research paper on the designated topic.
PROJECT 1A : CASE STUDY
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Task:
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Jahn Gehl in the Life Between Buildings (1971) “examined the relationship between patterns of space use, especially outdoor activities, and the spatial properties of the physical world. He introduced the concepts of necessary, optimal and social activities (Beatriz Campos, http://www.journalofspacesyntax.org/).
For this particular task, students are to read Jahn Gehl’s Life Between Buildings (Chapter 1). Subsequently, the students are to examine patterns of social activities in a city (foreign city to be provided by instructor*) and identify ‘contact points’. They are to classify the varying degrees of contact intensity. Students are expected to research for information from publications and other relevant sources.
PROJECT 1B : COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS ESSAY
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Task:
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Part 2 of the project requires students to write a comparative analysis essay based on findings from case study (Part 1) and local site research (Design Studio). Students are to examine similarities and dissimilarities based on the patterns of social activities, types of ‘contact points’. And the varying degrees of contact intensity between the two cities. A comparative analysis essay is a commonly used type of writing assignment where students are require to critically analyze any two subjects, finding and pointing out their similarities and/or dissimilarities. Students are expected to research for information from publications, internet and other relevant sources. For local site, students are expected to conduct own site observation (Studio). Essay is to be supported with images and diagrams relevant to support and interpret analysis of the site and its qualities.
PROJECT 2 : SYNOPSIS
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Task:
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Subsequent to each thematic lecture, students are required to submit a synopsis in the form of a reaction paper. Its aim is for the students to read a selected reading in relation to the theme that has been discussed in class for the week and submit a reaction paper to the text. There will be a total to 4) synopses. A reaction or response paper requires the writer to analyze a text, then develop commentary related to it. It requires thoughtful reading, research and writing. It should identify the key points highlighted in the text and then focus on your personal perspective on issues raised through the text. In addition to your personal perspective, you should identify experiences or insights that have shaped your perspective.
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