AA3SCA-Construction Technology: Integration

Module Provider: School of Architecture, School of Built Environment
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Spring / Summer term module
Pre-requisites: AA2STC Construction Technology: Core Studies
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: AA3DS5 Architecture Design ô€€–Complexity and AA3DS6 Architecture Design ô€€–Integration
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr John Harding
Email: j.e.harding@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module is a third year compulsory module within a series of related science and technology modules, to be provided over three years within the Architecture programme, and is closely related to other modules including the studio-based part of the curriculum.Ìý It may also be of relevance to other programmes: elements of the module or the module as a whole may be common to other programmes.

Building on first and second-year modules, it explores the environmental and socio- political implications of design and specification choices, as well as the financial implications of such choices. It also explores issues relating to buildability; and to the evaluation of buildings in use.

Aims:

Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of the implications of design and specification choices.

There is an emphasis on environmental, social, economic and cultural resilience throughout this module.

Aims will be achieved using a variety of teaching and learning methods: the module includes field-based work involving measurement and interaction with building users.

Assessable learning outcomes:

1. Students will understand and be able to describe, using appropriate vocabulary, aspects of the subject areas outlined below, and will be able to demonstrate the application of this knowledge and understanding in experimental work, assignments and examination. GC9.1; GC9.2; GC10.1; GC10,1; GC10.2.Ìý They will be able to demonstrate in assignments skills which show an understanding of the wider implications of design and specification choices.Ìý Such skills underpin a conceptual and critical approach to architectural design that integrates and satisfies the aesthetic aspects of a design and the technical requirements of its construction and the needs of the user within the precepts of sustainability and ethical practiceÌýÌý GC9.1; GC9.2; GC9.3; GC10.1; GC10.2.


2. Students will be able to demonstrate in assignments the development of their understanding of alternative materials, processes and techniques that a pply to architectural design and building construction. GC9.1; GC9.2; GC9.3; GC10.1; GC10.2


3. Students will be able to demonstrate in assignments an ability to undertake investigative work, and to critically evaluate precedents using modelling and a range of Building Performance Evaluation techniques. GC9.1; GC9.2; GC9.3.


4. There will be an understanding ofÌý the investigation, critical appraisal and selection of alternative struc tural, constructional and material systems relevant to architectural design; GC 8.3

Additional outcomes:

1. Students will be expected to have developed an understanding of relationships between science and technology and the history, theory and practice of architectural design; and relationships between people, buildings and the environment. GC9.1; GC9.2; GC9.3.


2. They will also have developed an understanding of the wider implications of design and specification choices, and the duties of architects and designers to clients, users and wider society.GC10.1; GC10.2


3. They will also have developed their awareness of the needs and aspirations of building users in relation to the science and technology of architecture. And this understanding will be applied to their own building design project


4. Students will have an ability to evaluate evidence, arguments and assumptions in orderÌý to make and present sound judgments within a structured discourse relating to architectural culture, theory and design; GA 1.4

Outline content:

The module is structured around several topic areas:

1. Making responsible design and specification choices: the env