Architectural Design Dissertation (U00835)

? Credit Points : 40 ? SCQF Level : 10 ? Acronym : ACE-4-ADDiss

The Dissertation provides the student with an opportunity to investigate an architectural topic negotiated with staff. The student will undertake sustained and in depth research and present a coherently argued, fully referenced piece of academic writing.
In the first semester preparation and research is undertaken, which provides the student with an opportunity to plan and organise the study materials and research methods required in the writing of the Dissertation. This culminates in the submission of a synopsis and bibliography. In the second semester, the dissertation is developed and written.

Entry Requirements

? This course is not available to visting students.

? Co-requisites : Architectural Design Placement Report (U00830), Architectural Design Option 2 (U00831), Academic Portfolio 1 (U00832)

? Prohibited combinations : This course can only be taken by students enrolled in the MA (Hons) Architectural Design degree

? Costs : Expenditure may be incurred in making study visits building sites and archives to gather information Further expenditure is required in the creation of the Dissertation. Processes and materials involved in the presentation of their work: printing and reprographic charges, photographic costs and binding.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Architecture - Design, (School of Arts, Culture and Environment, Schedule A)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 4th year

? Delivery Period : Full Year (Blocks 1-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 15 minutes per week for 11 weeks

? Additional Class Information : Introductory session followed by self-directed learning throughtout Semester 1 while the students are in Placement. Supervision in Semester 2 of Senior Honours at times to be arranged with individual tutors

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

Dissertation preparation and research aims to develop the following skills:
Introduce the student to research methods relevant to writing a dissertation
Develop skills in the use of library and research sources
Develop skills in the use of Websites and electronic methods of deriving information
Develop skills in correct writing style, grammar and syntax
Develop skills in the correct use and acknowledgement of sources
Identification of a dissertation topic and the writing of a dissertation abstract/synopsis
The Dissertation aims to
- Develop the student's intellectual curiosity relating to the dissertation topic
- Nurture well-formulated arguments
- Practice clear written expression against stated objectives
- gain knowledge of a specific aspect of architecture, history and theory, technology, environment, architectural design or related disciplines of art, cultural studies and landscape and its application in critical debate
- Demonstrate detailed knowledge of the chosen subject
- Gain skills in the production of a coherent text - including correct syntax, referencing conventions, properly formulated conclusions and the acknowledgement of sources
- Gain skills in the production of an attractive dissertation - combining text with illustrations.