Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Architectural Design & Technology
SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: BSV11158
Module leader: Mina Jowkar
School School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Subject area group: Built Environment
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

Architectural Design & Technology is a design-led module that challenges students to engage with a comprehensive architectural project, emphasizing conceptual innovation, aesthetic refinement, and the practical integration of technology and sustainability. Students will develop proposals individually or collaboratively (subject to yearly cohort planning), responding to a client’s design brief. Projects will focus on the integration of architectural design with Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), environmental performance, and visual coherence. A key aim is to support the UK’s zero-emission targets by addressing energy efficiency and sustainable design strategies throughout the project.By the end of the module, students will be equipped to contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable built environment through innovative and practical design approaches.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Evaluate MMC buildings, structures or systems and critically appraise their architectural design & technology.

LO2: Critically reflect on the relationship between structural form and architectural form and how design is influenced by the user experience, client’s requirements and technology.

LO3: Demonstrate the transferable skills and architectural knowledge developed during this module.

LO4: Critically explore the role of various design strategies in creating sustainable 'healthy' architecture.

LO5: Produce and deliver effective digital presentations.

LO6: Critically evaluate and apply health and safety principles to ensure compliance and risk mitigation in the design and development of architectural projects
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2024/5, Trimester 2, Blended,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: Blended
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Mina Jowkar
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Online GROUPIND_STUDY 8 Groupwork fosters collaboration and peer learning as students work in teams to analyse the site, client brief, (and case studies), identifying site potential, challenges and opportunities. This approach builds essential communication and teamwork skills, preparing students for professional practice.
Online Guided independent study 149 Students are expected to engage in self-directed study to consolidate their learning from lectures and studio sessions. This includes researching sustainability frameworks, analysing case studies, preparing design proposals, and completing coursework. Guided independent study develops critical thinking and the ability to independently explore complex topics related to sustainable design.
Face To Face Lecture 10 Lectures introduce essential concepts and principles of sustainable design and construction, covering topics such as building energy performance, carbon emissions, and mitigation strategies, offsite construction techniques, environmental and social sustainability goals, optimising occupant comfort, etc. These sessions provide a strong theoretical foundation for students to enhance their understanding of sustainability challenges and practical solutions.
Face To Face Supervised time in studio/workshop 33 Studio and workshop sessions offer practical, hands-on opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge gained from lectures. Under the guidance of lecturers, students participate in design exercises and practical tasks, emphasising real-world applications such as developing energy-efficient building designs and responding to client briefs. These sessions enhance creative problem-solving skills and build practical design competencies.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Portfolio 70 1~2~3~4~5~6 Exam Period , WORDS= max. 3 A2 sheet Portfolio – Students will submit a portfolio of up to three A2 pages.This portfolio provides an opportunity for students to professionally present and enhance the graphical representation of their design work by consolidating key project components into a cohesive document. It also serves as a valuable asset for showcasing their work to potential future employers.The portfolio should primarily include:- 3D views and massing models- Floor plans (recommended scales: 1:100 or 1:50)- A minimum of 2 sections and 1 elevations (recommended scales: 1:100 or 1:50)- A minimum of t 5 architectural details (e.g. wall sections, foundation/floor junctions, wall-floor-roof connections, staircase details, door/window and façade details) – recommended scale: 1:10- Considerations for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability- Overview of logistics, manufacturing, and construction processes- A concise summary of key benefits for the client
Oral Presentation 30 1~2~3~4~5~6 Week 13 HOURS= 0.5 "Oral Presentation – Students will deliver a comprehensive analysis of the local development plan and the selected design site, identifying key challenges and opportunities that inform their design strategy. They will also present their design concept and guiding principles, culminating in a clear articulation of their proposed design solutions.
Component 1 subtotal: 70
Component 2 subtotal: 30
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
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