Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit is offered in two parts, which may be taken either concurrently (18 credit points in one semester), or consecutively over two semesters (6 credit points in one semester then 12 credit points the following semester). Both parts must be completed in order to achieve a mark for the units.

The unit allows students to develop research skills and comprises a research project in the field of architecture. Research topics may be in either critical studies, design or technical studies, and are to be agreed on between the student and a nominated supervisor and approved by the unit coordinator. Students may have the opportunity to develop topics in association with industry partners or mentors. The Independent Research unit aims to train and assess students' abilities to contribute to the future development of their discipline through research that extends existing knowledge and/or through the creative application of knowledge in ways likely to impact upon future thinking in their fields of study. Study is based on independent research rather than taught coursework and the learning and assessment practices intentionally parallel those of postgraduate research studies.

Independent Research requires the development and demonstration of ability and acquired competence. It is expected that, in addition to addressing a project brief, students establish theoretical parameters that form the basis for investigation. While projects may vary in scale, and exhibit varying levels of complexity, students are required to incorporate the full range of knowledge and skills required for a fully resolved proposition or dissertation. Projects of an experimental nature are encouraged.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate the capacity to develop and respond to the requirements set out in a coherent architectural project brief; (2) clearly state and sustain a thesis, with a clearly substantiated argument and critical engagement with material; (3) develop a relevant bibliography of information, literature and precedent sources and research a chosen architectural topic to a substantial depth; (4) develop a sound theoretical basis and a high conceptual and project quality, with an appropriate level of resolution, depending on the nature of the project; and (5) clearly and effectively communicate architectural ideas and write in accordance with academic protocols.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: continuing assessment. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Kate Hislop
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Completion of at least 48 points of study and a current weighted average mark in the Master of Architecture of at least 70% and a mark of at least 70% in ARLA4506 Research Strategies in Landscape Architecture, Urban Design and Architecture
Advisable prior study
Students undertaking independent research should have completed at least two units in the relevant group (A: Design, B: Critical Studies
or C: Technical Studies) with an average of 70 per cent prior to commencing Independent Research Part 1.
Incidental fees
Incidental student fees and charges are costs incurred by students as part of their studies at UWA that are in addition to their tuition fees (further information is available here).
Participation in this unit will incur the following incidental fee(s):
Studio Consumables (estimated cost - $75-$350 per semester).
Contact hours
meetings with supervisor: approx 1 hour per week
presentations: through semester
Note
Part 1 and Part 2 of the unit can be undertaken sequentially or concurrently.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.