AA2VCC-Visualisation and Communication in Architectural Design £ Digital Media

Module Provider: School of Architecture, School of Built Environment
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Laura Maftei
Email: l.maftei@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This is the second in a series of three related modules which relate to visualisation and communication in architectural design. These modules are closely related to other modules including the studio-based part of the curriculum. Over three years, starting with mastery of traditional graphic techniques, and progressing to acquisition of skills relating to use of advanced visualisation and digital tools, students will acquire graphical, spatial, and communication skills, which will be applied in project-based course work in this and related modules.

This module introduces students to more advanced visual and collaborative technologies, developing essential practical and professional skills in the use of techniques and tools which enable visualisation, communication and evaluation of design proposals at various stages of the design process.

Architectural design must meet an array of functional, and aesthetic requirements: this module introduces students to a variety of computer-based tools which are used to develop, explore, animate, and simulate the appearance and /or performance of architectural designs. The concept of architectural design as a collaborative activity is placed in the context of building information modelling (BIM).

Aims:
Students will build on their knowledge of basic principles of visualisation and communication in architectural design. In this module students will become familiar with information modelling concepts and with a range of computer-based tools, gaining familiarity with different data formats for designing, visualizing and sharing information.

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of this module, student will be able demonstrate an ability to:

1. Apply graphic conventions and principles in effective representations of architectural design proposals using a variety of computer-based tools;


2. Understand a range of computer-based tools and their roles within the design process;


3. Use appropriate computer-based tools to produce a set of 2D- and 3D- project information for a studio design project.

Additional outcomes:

Students will also develop their understanding of:

1. How theory, practice and technology in visual communication shape and affect architectural design;


2. The creative application of visualisation and digital techniques to support design evaluation and decision making.

Outline content:

The module is structured around several topic areas:

1. Tools and methods for digital design – from digital sketching to visual simulations;


2. Collaborative architectural design: BIM concepts and approaches;


3. Visualisation and simulation of design ideas.

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

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module will predominantly involve pc-based hands-on activities. Such activities are supported by lectures and tutorials. Where appropriate, case studies and examples from practice will be used to focus and crystalise key concepts. The module will involve experimenting, evaluating, and choosing appropriate graphical techniques through both individual exploration and knowledge sharing and collaboration.

Contact hours:

Ìý	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	20
Tutorials	20
Guided independent study:	60
Ìý	Ìý	Ìý	Ìý
Total hours by term	100
Ìý	Ìý	Ìý	Ìý
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Portfolio	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:
N/A

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Submission of a portfolio of materials for assessment as described in detail in the assignment brief at the commencement of the module.

Formative assessment methods:
This module will include formative assessment related to tutorial sessions.

Penalties for late submission:

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:
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 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:
Students are required to contact the School to confirm reassessment arrangements.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:

2) Specialist equipment or materials:

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:

4) Printing and binding:

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 13 September 2021