Understanding Architecture
UndergraduateCUR-BAS1302021
Course information for 2021 intake View information for 2025 course intake
Draw on themes inspiring the meaning, expression and symbol of architectural design that defines how people live, work and play.
Delve into theories, texts and examples of global and national works. Visit sites and document your observations.
Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Understanding Architecture
About this subject
At the completion of this subject students will be able to:
- identify key theoretical concepts through reading and structural and spatial observations, and record these using relevant written and visual forms
- critically analyse existing theoretical knowledge and reflect upon own experiences of engagement with the local built environment and cultural factors impacting upon it
- synthesise ideas and theoretical concepts to demonstrate understanding of selected architectural propositions.
- Introduction
- Meaning, expression and representation
- Body and space
- Settings
- Open house
- Typologies and figures
- Tectonics
- Poetics
- Space and power
This subject was previously known as BAS130 Architecture and Culture.
This subject is an introduction to selected architectural themes and concepts underlining the design and production of architecture and the built environment. Architectural ideas and concepts are discussed through specific theories, texts, and examples of international, national and local works. These are explored through lectures, tutorials, site visits and carefully considered and documented through reading, writing and drawing.
Please Note: If it’s your first time studying a Curtin University subject you’ll need to complete their compulsory ‘Academic Integrity Program’. It only takes two hours to complete online, and provides you with vital information about studying with Curtin University. The Academic Integrity Program is compulsory, so if it’s not completed your subject grades will be withheld.
Find out more about the Academic Integrity module.
- Critical Review (20%)
- Research Essay (40%)
- Reflection (40%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
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Entry requirements
Equivalent subjects
You should not enrol in this subject if you have successfully completed any of the following subject(s) because they are considered academically equivalent:
CUR-BAS130C-Understanding Architecture (no longer available)
Others
Note: it is recommended to complete APC100 Academic and Professional Communication (or similar subject ensuring you are familiar with research and writing requirements) before undertaking this subject.
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
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