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 comprises a series of lectures sketching the historical background of architecture and, to a lesser extent, the planning of towns in Western Australia from 1829 to the present. Running parallel to the lectures is a series of tutorials and site visits concentrating on the processes of the architectural production which have taken place since 1829. There is some choice in the selection of topics within this range. Examples are the assimilation of principally English ideas and architectural models during the early years of settlement (1829 to 1860s), the dramatic change of architectural expression during the 1890s, and the application of radical ideas from 1950 to the 1960s.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of the history of architecture and town planning in Western Australia; (2) demonstrate an understanding of historical building practices; (3) gain knowledge of the available resources for the study of architectural history; (4) have an awareness of the influence of ideas on architecture and town planning; (5) gain knowledge of how influence operates in the context of Western Australia; (6) have an ability to research in the area of architectural history; (7) read, interpret and analyse architectural documentation and works of architecture; and (8) develop technical skills in writing architectural history.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) research project (30 per cent)—students research nominated buildings and architects and are awarded an individual mark based on thoroughness and completeness of research (80 per cent) and clarity of the presentation of the research (20 per cent) and (2) an essay project (70 per cent)—students choose a historical topic and are awarded a team mark based on originality of discussion of the topic (50 per cent), adequacy of research needed to support the discussion (30 per cent) and clarity of the presentation of the essay (20 per cent). 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)
Professor Simon Anderson
Contact hours
36 (lectures/seminars: 12 x 3 hours per week)
Note
This unit includes site visits.
Text

Pitt Morison, M. and White, J. Western Towns and Buildings: UWA Press 1979

Recommended
reading

Molyneux, I. Looking Around Perth: Wescolour Press 1981

  • 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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.