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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Daylight and Sunlight
Reference AC5008 Version 3
Created July 2021 SCQF Level SCQF 10
Approved August 2009 SCQF Points 15
Amended September 2021 ECTS Points 7.5

Aims of Module
To provide the student with the ability to critically evaluate and use sophisticated and integrative methods and tools in daylight/ sunlight design of buildings. To develop an in-depth understanding of the psychological and perceptual issues of daylight and sunlight impacting on the comfort and well-being of building occupants.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Develop an in depth understanding of the impact of sunlight / daylight on the design of building form.
2 Design appropriate sunlighting/ daylighting systems and integrate in an architectural project using the appropriate tools.
3 Conduct an evaluation of the design project to set targets, demonstrate awareness of the effects of climate change in relation to the use of renewable natural resources in the built environment.

Indicative Module Content
The module provides practical guidance on the design of daylighting systems, assessment of the impact of sunlight on comfort and well being, the perception of space, building form and the wider design issues relating to the impact of climate change and use of natural resources.

Module Delivery
This is a workshop/tutorial based module. It is a continuation of the studio design project. Students will develop daylighting strategies and applications using the appropriate tools and integrate them in their design projects. Student led seminars will be used to discuss the psychological, perceptual and environmental impact of daylight and sunlight on building design. Students are advised by staff on sources of information, appropriate tools and receive assistance in the interpretation and application of the information they collect. A substantial part of the module is devoted to studio-based student centred and library-based research.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 34 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 116 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 150 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3
Description: A design project.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The overall module grade is based on 100% weighting of Component 1 (Design Project). An overall minimum grade D is required to pass the module. Non-submission will result in an NS grade.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A A
B B
C C
D D
E E
F F
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 Szokolay, S V., Introduction to Architectural Science: the Basis of Sustinable Design, Architectural Press, 2004.
2 Nicholls, R., The Green Building Bible, Vols 1 & 2, Green Building Press, 2006.
3 Sue Roaf et al, Adapting Buildings and Cities for Climate changes, Architectural press, 2005.
4 T. Muneer, Solar Radiation & Daylight Models for the Energy Efficient Design of Buildings, Architectural press, 1997.
5 Thomas, R., (ed), Environmental Design, 3rd ed Spon, 2006


Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781