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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Research-Based Design Project (UK Context)
Reference	ACM100	Version	2
Created	August 2021	SCQF Level	SCQF 11
Approved	July 2017	SCQF Points	30
Amended	September 2021	ECTS Points	15

Aims of Module
To enable students to develop design skills in relation to a themed area, and to demonstrate the capacity to explore, interpret and evaluate in depth the relationships between theoretical concepts, context, and the built environment.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1	Critically appraise and apply appropriate research methods, and to critically analyse and evaluate the findings.
2	Critically appraise and interpret design briefs and generate creative design or process-led solutions that demonstrate clear and consistent architectural intentions.
3	Demonstrate a clear strategic intent within design concepts, and a clear evolution of architectural thinking in developing design or process-led solutions.
4	Critically and objectively appraise the final proposal in relation to theoretical concepts, and the given context and setting for the project.
5	Communicate design intentions effectively by verbal presentation and multi-media techniques, to a professional standard.

Indicative Module Content
In this module students will work individually to develop a project brief the outline of which is prescribed. They will then develop a scheme design that must demonstrate realisation within the context of contemporary architectural and professional practice. Design work is expected to be underpinned by the application of relevant theory and by a rigorous research process giving consideration to factors such as social, cultural, economic, technological, and sustainability issues. Students will demonstrate a capacity to resolve competing issues to provide a valid and supportable design solution.

Indicative Module Content

In this module students will work individually to develop a project brief the outline of which is prescribed. They will then develop a scheme design that must demonstrate realisation within the context of contemporary architectural and professional practice. Design work is expected to be underpinned by the application of relevant theory and by a rigorous research process giving consideration to factors such as social, cultural, economic, technological, and sustainability issues. Students will demonstrate a capacity to resolve competing issues to provide a valid and supportable design solution.

Module Delivery
The module is delivered through application of theory to design project work. It is a studio-based module with introductory lectures, individual and group tutorials, private study and design work. Students develop work through self-directed learning, and through tutor consultation. Students are expected to consult regularly with tutors and present their work to staff, other students, and invited critics at periodic reviews. Final design work will be presented verbally and by using multi-media techniques in open forum. Tutors provide feedback at tutorials and reviews.

Module Delivery

The module is delivered through application of theory to design project work. It is a studio-based module with introductory lectures, individual and group tutorials, private study and design work. Students develop work through self-directed learning, and through tutor consultation. Students are expected to consult regularly with tutors and present their work to staff, other students, and invited critics at periodic reviews. Final design work will be presented verbally and by using multi-media techniques in open forum. Tutors provide feedback at tutorials and reviews.

Indicative Student Workload	Full Time	Part Time
Contact Hours	100	N/A
Non-Contact Hours	200	N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours	N/A	N/A
TOTAL	300	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, 4, 5
Description:	Work is assessed formatively at interim reviews and summatively at a portfolio review at the end of the semester.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The overall module grade is based on 100% weighting of Component 1 (Coursework). 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	ACM104 Innovative Strategies: Design and Process
Corequisites for module	AC5005 Research Methods
Precluded Modules	None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1	Depending on the nature and scope of the student's individual thesis project, each will develop their own reading list.
2	The following are suggested texts: Constructing Architecture: Materials, Processes, Structures (Paperback) by Andrea Deplazes (Editor), G. H. Soffker (Translator) Rossi, A The Architecture of the City, 1984 Opposition Books MIT, Cambridge Lehmann, S (2014) Low Carbon Cities: Transforming Urban Systems. London, Routledge.

Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen

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