AAMRM2-Research Methods 2

Module Provider: School of Architecture, School of Built Environment
Number of credits: 40 [20 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites: AAMRM1 Research Methods 1 and AAMAD1 Architectural Design 1 and AAMAT1 Architectural Technologies and AAMPS1 Professional Skills 1 and AAMAD2 Architectural Design 2
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: AAMAD3 Architectural Design 3- Thesis Design and AAMPS2 Professional Skills 2
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Izabela Wieczorek
Email: i.z.wieczorek@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Research and innovation should be central to architectural practice. A key ambition of the school is to give students the research skills to advance the cause of architecture as a research discipline in the workplace, and in doing so, to promote innovation and the development of a knowledge base for the field. This module will therefore provide students with an important grounding in research methods (theory) and their development through history and relation to societal change. This module will prepare students to deliver a sustained and rigorous piece of independent research through the production of a written dissertation. 

Aims:

This module aims to  evidence and apply relevant  research methods and academic enquiry, as well as an understanding of their development and relationship to the history of the field of architectural practice in order to produce a significant piece of independent research.

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of this module, students will:

1. Demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of a range of research methodologies (including art practice), their appropriate usage and their place in the history of architectural knowledge; GC3.1


2. Demonstrate knowledge of the cultural, social and intellectual histories, theories and technologies that influence the design of buildings; GC2.1


3. Demonstrate knowledge of the influence of history and theory on the spatial, social, and technological aspects of architecture; GC2.2


4. Demonstrate knowledge of how the theories, practices and technologies of the arts influence architectural design; GC3.1


5. Demonstrate knowledge of the creative application of the fine arts and their relevance and impact on architecture; GC3.2


6. Demonstrate critical understanding of how knowledge is advanced through research to produce clear, logically argued and original written work relating to architectural culture, theory and design; GA2.4


7. Have problem solving skills, professional judgment, and ability to take the initiative and make appropriate decisions in complex and unpredictable circumstances; GA2.6


8. Demonstrate ability to identify individual learning; GA2.7

Additional outcomes:

At the end of this module, students will have:

1. Employability skills: written, visual and verbal communication, research, project planning, ethical good practice, interviewing and data management.


2. Understanding of a range of research methods applicable to architectural practice.


3. Knowledge of the history of research and innovation within the field of architecture.


4. Ability to develop a robust well researched research project proposal evidenced through a piece of critical writing.

Outline content:

This module consists primarily of independent research. The module is closely related to other modules, including Architectural Design 3 (AAM AD3) module, providing an opportunity to further develop research skills in relevant current architectural issues that in some form relate to questions and problems that arise from/ are addressed by the design studio practice. This module offers an opportunity to evidence a deep understanding of a topical issue in architecture through a substantial reflective piece of critical writing/dissertation. This final written dissertation should bring together a ‘position’ informed by the RM1 module and inform the major design thesis project AAM AD3.

Global context:

The skills and knowledge which the student will acquire from this module have universal application. 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Students will conduct their research and writing under the direction of the supervisor who will arrange discussions in seminar and tutorial sessions around the progress and development of an individual piece of writing. 

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars	4	3
Tutorials	8	2
Guided independent study:
Wider reading (independent)	60
Wider reading (directed)	60
Other	40
Preparation for seminars	8	10
Carry-out research project	60
Dissertation writing	90	45
Reflection	10
Total hours by term	340	60	0
Total hours for module	400

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Dissertation	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:

N/A 

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Fieldwork report  Research progress seminar presentation 

Formative assessment methods:

This module includes formative assessments from both lecturer(s) and peers participating in seminars, tutorials and group discussions. A research question, plan and reading list are submitted and agreed with the supervisor before summer. A draft dissertation is submitted at the beginning of Autumn term that receives feedback through tutorials. Seminars take place in the Autumn recall week and in January.

Penalties for late submission:

The below information applies to students on taught programmes except those on Postgraduate Flexible programmes. Penalties for late submission, and the associated procedures, which apply to Postgraduate Flexible programmes are specified in the policy 'Penalties for late submission for Postgraduate Flexible programmes', which can be found here: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmissionpgflexible.pdf
The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 50% overall 

Reassessment arrangements:

Reassessment will be by coursework to be completed August/September 

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books:  Required and recommended textbooks are usually available in the University Library.

2) Specialist equipment or materials:

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:

4) Printing and binding:

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:  There is access to computers with specialist software, however, students may also wish to buy their own computers.

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 5 April 2023