Frameworks of Contemporary Practice

Purpose of the course:

1. Examine architecture through the optics of the Discipline, Profession and Practice — the issues of knowledge domains, development of technique, analytics and technologies; ethics, social responsibility and regulation; value and innovation within different social, economic, political, and environmental contexts;

2. Explore the range of contemporary and emergent practices as they relate to the re-framing of our participation in and impacts on changing social, political, economic, cultural, technological and material landscapes;

3. Develop analytic frameworks and tools for critically examining different models and modes of practice, including their respective strategies, organization and operations;

4. Challenge students to think about their present and future participation in practice.
Course Format: Interactive lectures by the instructor (and one guest lecture); two team assignments that will require students to meet outside of class hours in small groups (5 or less) for group discussions, content development, preparation of presentations, and two sessions devoted to presentation/discussion of a semester project (to be undertaken individually or in a team of two).

Evaluation: Students are expected to be in regular attendance, to participate in class discussions, and to collaborate with others on team assignments. Evaluation is based on class participation (30%), team projects (30%), and a semester project (40%).

Prerequisites: Seminar is enrolled by lottery and limited to 25.