MArch with UP Research Project module (AR50007)

This module runs alongside modules in:

• statutory planning
• property development
• sustainable cities

These are intended to support your learning across both architecture and planning disciplines.

You’ll work in parallel with MSc Spatial Planning students through these associated modules. In these, you will learn about cross-discipline concerns. This will prepare you for a career as a design professional in the built environment.

Studio projects are supported by design tutors, lecturers, and external specialists. They will be able to help you address key issues relevant to the future of our built environment.

You will use a variety of communication methods. This will include drawings, models, and text. Through these, you will be able to articulate your design research intentions.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• complete a design-led research project and accompanying critical report. These will be in an area of individual interest that contributes to the broader themes of the studio group
• undertake a design-led research project. This will be on a topic selected and developed by you in collaboration with studio colleagues and tutors
• have the opportunity to explore and define an individual critical position. This will be about the disciplines of architecture and planning. You will also understand their contribution to the creation of high-quality, sustainable places. This will also cover the mitigation of climate change
• critically reflect on your work as it progresses. You will also learn to evidence your arguments and decisions with reference to theory and contemporary practice

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• develop ideas independently. You will be able to formulate, articulate and evidence a clear design-led research project. This will combine both architectural and planning practice
• generate and resolve design proposals. These will show an understanding of, and originality in the application of, architectural and planning knowledge. You will be to use design to test a hypothesis, to speculate and to draw insightful conclusions which are evidence-based
• select and use appropriate visual and written media. You will be able to test, analyse, critically appraise and reflect on the inter-relationship between architecture and planning. You will also be able to reflect on their contribution to the making of high-quality, sustainable places

Assignments / assessment

There are two components to assessment in this module:

• A critically reflective portfolio
  • This is a digital document where you need to reflect on and show how you have met the ARB and RIBA Part 2 criteria across two years of architectural study. You will need to evidence personal direction and attitude towards your future practice
• A design-led research project
  • This consists of a curated exhibition of work and an accompanying report. These will also include evidence of the development process

There are also interim submissions of graphic and written work during each semester. These allow you to discuss your work and gain feedback.

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

• studio tutorials in groups
• individual tutorials supported by lectures and workshops

You will work in a hands-on way developing and testing your ideas through manual and digital drawings, models, and prototypes.