fall 2005
ARC 560T:
TechComm Advanced Design
Course Description
TechComm Advanced Design is a comprehensive studio bridging many of the issues typically addressed in any advanced design studio-- such as design methodologies and particular pedagogical intents as filtered through topical projects--with a strong focus on the integration of technical issues and to the nature of presentation documents at all phases. Pragmatically, the scheduling of production for course project begins with an intensive research component to generate discoveries and to posit linkages. A schematic design is produced in model and 2-d drawing formats, followed by design development with 3-d components, and a sampling of detail drawings that may be included in a construction documents set.
Naturally, issues of construction and assemblies are framed within a set of concerns that are present in any type of construction, such as expansion & contraction, moisture penetration and evacuation, ventilation, primary and secondary structure, logic of connections, differential settlement, etc. Although the most significant issues will be addressed, particular attention will be given to the nature of detail drawings and the final product produced by the students will result in a presentation package that may be defined as beyond design development phase but short a complete construction documents package.
Materials
General material and format considerations will be suggested by the instructor throughout the course, however, investigation and experimentation is strongly encouraged at all stages of production and design. Materials and equipment shall be acquired prior to scheduled studio time.
Sketchbooks
Sketchbooks will also serve as notebooks (for periodic lectures and readings in this course) are required and will be reviewed by the instructor intermittently.
Photography
Photography will be an essential tool that will be used for initial site analysis, final presentation and most importantly for daily documentation of your design progress.
Grading
Final grading will be weighted as follows:
|
Studio assignments/exercises (including notebook/sketchbook reviews) |
25% |
| Effort in pursuit of intellectual ideas | 25% |
| Material Production | 25% |
| Final design projects | 25% |
Basis of Evaluation: Grading Criteria
Establishing grades for projects of a creative nature is a more complex matter than grading in other academic areas. While each project contains certain quantifiable elements by which it may be evaluated, a significant portion of each grade is derived from broader, more subjective sets of issues. The criteria for establishing a grade for each project are as follows:
A: Outstanding Work
Project must be complete at all levels - i.e., concept, process, product, and integration of building systems. Each of these levels must surpass expectations for Advanced Design work in terms of inventiveness, appropriateness, graphic ability, precision, thoughtfulness, and personal advancement.
B: Good Work
Project must be complete at all levels. Each level is done thoroughly, is well researched, and diligently pursued, and successfully completed. This is expected performance for Advanced Design work.
C: Average Work
Not all levels (concept, process, product, integration of building systems) are developed equally. For example, a brilliant concept and a casual product, or weak idea, an indifferent development, or unsuccessful systems integration and a good end result will get a C grade.
D: Not Very Good Work
Not all levels are present, some of the requested components of the projects are missing. Either care and attention are missing, or basic skills in graphics, logic, and concentration are not developed enough for the Advanced Design level. The design skill and knowledge expected of the Advanced Design level has not been demonstrated nor has there been an appropriate transfer of skill and knowledge from previous courses to the work of the studio.
F: Unacceptable Work
Note that this grade will be assigned when you have performed at a level that exhibits disinterest and/or lack of the absolute minimum product necessary to represent the base intentions of your design or if you have missed an extended amount of class time (over one week) without notifying the School of Architecture, (512) 471-1922, as to your situation.
X: (Excused Incomplete)
Can be given only for legitimate reasons of illness or family emergency. Simply not completing the work on time is not an adequate cause for assigning this symbol. It may be used only after consultation with the instructor of Assistant Dean, and with an agreement as to a new completion date. Studio work has to be completed before the second week of the next deign semester in which you wish to enroll, according to School of Architecture policy.
Other items that may affect grades, and are at the discretion of individual instructors include: attendance in the studio and at reviews (see below), and non-acceptance of late work and penalties for the same.
Attendance
Punctual and regular attendance is essential and mandatory. Students are expected to work on projects in the studio during the entire scheduled time slot. It is also required that your work for this course during non-studio hours take place in the studio rather than at home. Students with three unexcused absences during the term, or two consecutive unexcused absences, may be dropped from the course without further notice.
Materials
Class time will not be used for the acquisition of materials and equipment.
Late Work
Deadlines will be established for all assignments, exercises and projects. Late work will not be accepted and will constitute a failing grade for the aspect of the course.
Student Work
All of the work is to be completed only be the student. No person who is not a member of the class roster will be permitted to work in the studio at anytime.
Studio Rules (partial)
- No smoking at any time.
- No eating during studio hours.
Alcohol or drugs are not be permitted at any time and possession or use warrants immediate expulsion from the course and almost certainly from the School of Architecture.
No radios without earphones permitted at any time. Please be respectful of others. Not everyone enjoys the same music as you at any given time. They may often feel intimidated or excluded if the voice their opinions or preferences.
Schedule
This course is intended to as intense as any design course to date for your academic career. Much of your personal as well as team success will depend on your efficiency and ability to schedule and prioritize.