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

If, as Robin Evans asserted, "drawing is the principal locus of conjecture in architecture", then how might emerging digital techniques and systems of architectural production challenge existing forms of architectural representation? In an age of photorealistic rendering and virtual reality how might we interpret the complex history of architectural representation to inform and propose novel forms of architectural imaginary and new sites of architectural speculation?

This unit offers the opportunity for in-depth explorations of the specialised material that constitutes the very particular history of architectural production. Through seminar-based, student-lead presentations and discussion the unit interrogates the context, histories and theories that surround canonical drawings, models and treatises from medieval notebooks to the datascaping and diagramming of the late twentieth century. How might an understanding of these histories be synthesised into new ways of thinking about drawing into the future?

This unit is one of a number of options in the Masters of Architecture that has a differing and complementary focus on drawing. In this unit students investigate the subject matter via two means–the construction of analytical and critical drawings about existing architectural drawings as well as the written exploration of these drawings.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate understanding that the context, history and theories of different modes of architectural representation, and the manner in which these drawings constitute a specialised body of knowledge; (2) analyse and critically compare different and specific modes of architectural representation via drawings and the written word; and (3) gain expertise in understanding how architectural ideas are transmitted through models, drawings and treatises to architectural production.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) seminar presentation and discussion and (2) illustrated research essay. 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)
Philip Goldswain
Contact hours
seminars: up to 3 hours a week for 12 weeks
  • 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.