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 Independent Design Research unit aims to train and assess students' abilities to contribute to the future development of their disciplines 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 Design requires the development of a comprehensive design brief that provides clear communication of project objectives, constraints and opportunities. As well, students establish theoretical parameters (aesthetic, critical and/or technical) that form the basis for design 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 design proposition. Projects of an experimental nature are encouraged.

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 a coherent architectural project brief; (2) respond effectively to the requirements set out in the project brief; (3) develop a sound theoretical basis and a high conceptual and design quality; (4) demonstrate technical resolution consistent with the nature of the project; and (5) clearly and effectively communicate design ideas..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: Final folio, including project brief and written exegesis. 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
ARCT5101
and ARCT5201 and the submission of a design proposal to the satisfaction of the unit coordinator.
the completion of at least 48 points of study.
and a current weighted average mark in the Master of Architecture of at least 70 per cent.
Advisable prior study
Students should be in the final 48 points of the Master of Architecture course to enrol in this unit.
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
Generally one hour per week during the semester, through individual supervision.
Note
Enrolled students can access unit material via the LMS (Learning Management System).
  • 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.