Aims and Fit of Module

To introduce the principles of environment science.

To introduce aspects of climatically responsive architecture, and lighting of buildings.

To give students an understanding of the role of a building as a modifier of climate with reference to traditional climatically responsive architecture and the role of buildings in the context of global energy usage.

To introduce design approaches based upon passive techniques for achieving efficient thermal performance of buildings.

Learning outcomes

A Identify and illustrate an understanding of the principles associated with optimum visual, thermal and acoustic environments.

B Perform simple calculations in heat transfer, moisture transfer, energy consumption, artificial lighting and daylighting.

C Explain the impact of buildings on the environment and identify strategies to meet the current building regulatory requirements on sustainable building practice.

Method of teaching and learning

Subject material will be delivered by formal lectures and assessed by means of a formal examination. Experience has shown that many students arriving with a limited scientific background find difficulty in applying scientific principles in a design context in the first year of study. Coursework assessment is deemed more suitable for students in later years who will have undertaken the formal lecture course and perceive themselves as having a level of scientific competence compared to other members of their cohort. Lectures are supported by printed handouts, available on ICE, and illustrated with images of recent and historic buildings.