AA2VCC-Visualisation and Communication in Architectural Design ô€€– Digital Media

Module Provider: School of Architecture, School of Built Environment
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Laura Maftei
Email: l.maftei@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This is the second in a series of three related modules which relate to visualisation and communication in architectural design. These modules are closely related to other modules including the studio-based part of the curriculum. Over three years, starting with mastery of traditional graphic techniques, and progressing to acquisition of skills relating to use of advanced visualisation and digital tools, students will acquire graphical, spatial, and communication skills, which will be applied in project-based course work in this and related modules.

This module introduces students to more advanced visual and collaborative technologies, developing essential practical and professional skills in the use of techniques and tools which enable visualisation, communication and evaluation of design proposals at various stages of the design process.

Architectural design must meet an array of functional, and aesthetic requirements: this module introduces students to a variety of computer-based tools which are used to develop, explore, animate, and simulate the appearance and /or performance of architectural designs. The concept of architectural design as a collaborative activity is placed in the context of building information modelling (BIM).

Aims:
Students will build on their knowledge of basic principles of visualisation and communication in architectural design. In this module students will become familiar with information modelling concepts and with a range of computer-based tools, gaining familiarity with different data formats for designing, visualizing and sharing information.

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of this module, student will be able demonstrate an ability to:

1. Apply graphic conventions and principles in effective representations of architectural design proposals using a variety of computer-based tools;


2. Understand a range of computer-based tools and their roles within the design process;


3. Use appropriate computer-based tools to produce a set of 2D- and 3D- project information for a studio design project.

Additional outcomes:

Students will also develop their understanding of:

1. How theory, practice and technology in visual communication shape and affect architectural design;


2. The creative application of visualisation and digital techniques to support design evaluation and decision making.

Outline content:

The module is structured around several topic areas:

1. Tools and methods for digital design – from digital sketching to visual simulations;


2. Collaborative architectural design: BIM concepts and approaches;


3. Visualisation and simulation of design ideas.

Global context:
The skills and knowledge which the student will acquire from this module have universal application.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module will predominantly involve pc-based hands-on activities. Such activities are supported by lectures and tutorials. Where appropriate, case studies and examples from practice will be used to focus and crystalise key concepts. The module will involve experimenting, evaluating, and choosing appropriate graphical techniques through both individual exploration and knowledge sharing and collaboration.