Aims and Fit of Module

The main objective of the module is to promote an understanding of the forces that shape the human-made environment and the role played by design professionals. It aims to help students as future designers to understand that the city is a complex and dynamic system, and stimulate their active thinking and positive responses to various urban phenomena in terms of generating appropriate strategies for the city’s sustainability and effectively solving design problems. Through a series of lectures on urban history, case studies, design theories and methodologies, this module is to enhance students’ awareness of the nature of cities, the formation and transformation of their urban forms and to obtain basic urban design skills.

Learning outcomes

A Explain various social, historical, cultural, economic, political and environmental forces that shape and transform cities.

B Demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between humans and their environment.

C  Assess various urban design theories and/or practices.

D Translate various opinions on desirable design strategies and norms in relationship to current debates.

Method of teaching and learning

1. Lectures to gain general knowledge of topics

2. Seminars to develop presentation skills and discussing complex ideas

3. Essays to test individual learning and critical thinking skills and to develop library research skills, writing and academic referencing technique.

4. To stimulate through raising questions and doubts using wide reading to enhance knowledge