Ecologies, Techniques, Technologies III

Ecology and the Design World (Max Piana): 

This course introduces Landscape Architecture students to the fundamentals of ecological science. We will use urban ecology and the social-ecological-systems framework as a lens through which to interpret human-influenced landscapes, assess ecological management and design decisions, and generate interventions. Through lectures, case studies, discussions, and field trips students will develop a working understanding, or ecological literacy, of ecological systems, function, and dynamics at multiple scales. Students will synthesize and apply these analytical skills in a series of assignments that integrate methods from field ecology, research, and design.
 

An Introduction to Woody Plants as a Design Medium (Christopher Matthews): 

This portion of the course is for MLA AP students.

Recognizing that plants are one of the essential mediums of landscape architecture, this module seeks to introduce the student to the relationships between plants and people (horticulture) and the relationships between plants and the environment (ecology). The class focuses on the following topics and objectives:

– Concepts and practices necessary for using woody plants as a design medium.
– An introduction to the spatial, visual, functional, temporal, and sensorial qualities of woody plants in the landscape.
– An introduction to the horticultural requirements of woody plants particularly as it relates to the urban environment.
– Techniques and practices for using woody plants in the designed landscape.