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

The units ARLA4001 Design Research Part 1 and ARLA4002 Design Research Part 2 are a two part series that enable students to undertake in-depth, independent study in one of the specialisations: architecture or landscape architecture. They are taken are over two successive semesters and both parts must be completed.

Design 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.

These Design Research units allow students to develop research skills and comprise a research project in the field of architecture or landscape 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.

These units 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.

Credit
12 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 or landscape architecture 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 sources and research a chosen topic to an appropriate depth; (4) develop a sound theoretical basis and an appropriate conceptual and project quality, with an requisite level of resolution, depending on the nature of the project; and (5) clearly and effectively communicate architectural and landscape architectural ideas.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: design project and/or written dissertation. 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)
Mr Philip Goldswain
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
BH005 Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours)
Contact hours
Weekly or fortnightly meeting with supervisor
  • 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.