Theory of Architecture 1:1, 6 Credits

Contents

By examining various methods of communication and reflection, the course aims to provide basic orientation in the subject of theory of architecture and tools for architectural analysis. The semesters central concepts space, objects and body are examined from a theoretical, philosophical and communicative aspects. Students will learn to develop methods to analyse, reflect and argue around these concepts and to see the connection between practical and theoretical knowledge. The course introduces, for the profession of architects, essential skills and tools such as revaluation, analysis and argumentation, composition, text and sketching. The course consists largely of workshops and group activities in seminars. The individual work is organized around student trying and comparing new tools and methods and critical reading of and reflection on relevant texts. Through this the student explores the preparation, presentation and argumentation but also reading comprehension and critical thinking. Briefings and critiques are essential parts of both the pedagogical approach as well as the assessment. 

The course is divided into three modules: 

1. Communication: Architectural Methods (2 credits) 
2. Theory of Architecture: Concept of Space (2 credits)
3. Philosophy: Space and Body (2 credits)

Expected learning outcomes

For a passing result, the student must be able to: 

• Explain the need for an architect to have a reflective approach 
• Describe the interaction between theory of architecture and praxis 
• Discuss the concepts of space, object and body 
• Carry out basic methods for architectural analysis and communication 

Form of instruction

The teaching consists of project work and is conducted individually and in groups. The forms of teaching can be practical exercises, individual tutoring, group discussions and critiques as well as lectures, seminars, field studies, workshops and field trips. 

Examination modes

Examination is through both oral and written assignments, individually and in groups. During the course the different moments are assessed continuously through exercises and mandatory assignments of assessing nature. 

The grades Pass (G) and Fail (U) are used. To pass the course, all examinations and mandatory modules need to be completed and assigned a pass grade. The grade is a summary assessment of the results of the examinations of the different modules. To pass requires attendance at the instructor-led teaching that is of tentative nature and a Pass grade on the oral and written presentation of a group assignment and an approved written examination. 
 
Examiners may decide to deviate from the modes of assessment in the course syllabus. Individual adaption of modes of assessment must give due consideration to the student's needs. The adaption of modes of assessment must remain within the framework of the intended learning outcomes in the course syllabus. Students who require an adapted examination must submit a request to the department holding the course no later than 10 days before the examination. The examiner decides on the adaption of the examination, after which the student will be notified. 

Students who have achieved a pass are not permitted to retake an examination. 
Students who do not pass an examination have the right to retake examinations. The date of the retake must be notified no later than the date of the regular examination. The first opportunity to retake an examination is to be offered no later than two months after the regular examination, but no earlier than 10 working days after students have been notified of the results of the regular examination. For examinations held in May and June, the first opportunity to retake the examination is to be offered within three months of the regular examination session. In addition, at least one further re-examination is offered within a year from the regular exam date.

A student who has failed two consecutive examinations has the right to get another examiner, unless specific reasons arise (HF Ch. 6 § 22). Requests for another examiner are submitted to the head of department at Umeå School of Architecture. 

Other regulations

In the event of a course syllabus being withdrawn or undergoing major changes, students are guaranteed at least three examination opportunities (including the regular examination session) in accordance with the previous course syllabus during a maximum of two years from the expiry of the course syllabus or the discontinuation of the course.