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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Retrofit and Sustainability
Reference SU2054 Version 1
Created April 2023 SCQF Level SCQF 8
Approved June 2023 SCQF Points 30
Amended ECTS Points 15

Aims of Module
To provide students with an understanding of the overall context for domestic retrofit in the UK and the ability to examine appropriate and safe retrofit strategies and understand the financial costs and savings of retrofit and the effects on carbon dioxide emissions of properties

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Report on the political and technical context of domestic retrofit in the UK and the benefits of a successful sustainable retrofit
2 Categorise UK climate and construction typologies as well as the impact these have on fabric improvement strategies
3 Use the basics of building physics to identify moisture risks
4 Compare exemplar strategies for retrofitting building services, including the specification of heating, ventilation, and renewables
5 Undertake critical reflection on the core contents of the module relative to their application within the workplace

Indicative Module Content
This module prepares students for the technical challenges of retrofitting existing buildings to an excellent standard and avoiding unintended consequences. Weekly topics include: the UK retrofit context; climate and microclimate; construction typologies and fabric improvement strategies; heat and moisture movements; building services improvement; option evaluation and medium-term retrofit plans; monitoring and evaluation; case study analysis and knowledge application on workplace projects where applicable.

Module Delivery
The module is delivered in Blended Learning mode using structured online learning materials/activities and directed study, facilitated by regular online tutor support. Workplace Mentor support and work-based learning activities will allow students to contextualise this learning to their own workplace. Face-to-face engagement occurs through annual induction sessions, employer work-site visits, and modular on-campus workshops.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 30 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 30 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours 240 N/A
TOTAL 300 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body 240  

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: An integrated assignment consisting of illustrated written work to demonstrate understanding and application of the module learning outcomes and reflecting on the learning development throughout the module weeks that involves theory and practice.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The overall module grade is based on 100% weighting of Component 1 (assignment). 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 BAELI, M. ,2019. Residential retrofit: twenty case studies. Routledge.
2 BSI. ,2021. BS 5250: 2021 Management of moisture in buildings - code of practice
3 HUNT, R., & SUHR, M. ,2019. Old House Eco Handbook: A Practical Guide to Retrofitting for Energy Efficiency and Sustainability. Frances Lincoln.
4 INITIATIVE, L. E. T. ,2020. LETI Climate Emergency Design Guide. How New Buildings can Meet UK Climate Change.
5 MAY, N., & SANDERS, C. , 2017. Moisture in buildings: an integrated approach to risk assessment and guidance.
6 PIDDINGTON, J., Nicol, S., GARRETT, H., & CUSTARD, M. , 2020. The housing stock of the United Kingdom. BRE Trust: Watford, UK.
7 TRAYNOR, J. , 2020. ENERPHIT: A Step-by-Step Guide to Low Energy Retrofit. Routledge.


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