Theories of Architecture and Urbanism

THEORIES OF ARCHITECTURE & URBANISM
(ARC61303/ARC2224)

The teaching objectives of the module are:

1. To engage students with relevant theories which have shaped cities and experience around architecture, including its role as mediator between our society and its architecture

2. To provide critical perspectives on key issues within the contemporary discourse of architecture, through integration of case-studies and theoretical studies

3. To enhance the understanding of the complexity of architecture and the ability to undertake independent research

SYNOPSIS: REACTION PAPER

Subsequent to each thematic lecture, students are required to submit a synopsis in the form of 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 of the text. There will be a total of 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.

SYNOPSIS 1

SYNOPSIS 2

SYNOPSIS 4

SYNOPSIS 1

1/4

PROJECT: “THE IMAGE OF THE CITY”

Introduction

Students are required to present an in-depth and analytical research study on the designated topic. Students are to explore the image of a city based on Kevin Lynch’s most famous work, The Image of the City (1960). The project consisted of 2 parts; the first is to identify Lynch’s 5 elements; path, edges, districts, nodes and landmarks within a selected city and the second part is to produce an essay with a cognitive mapping of the city.

Objectives of Project

The objectives of this project are as follow:

1. To provide critical perspectives on key issues within the contemporary discourse of architecture, through integration of case-studies and theoretical studies.

2. To enhance the understanding of the complexity of architecture and the ability to undertake independent research.