The aims of this module is to provide students :
• With the knowledge of research methods appropriate in the practice of Architectural Technology
to apply and extend their research knowledge and skills learned in the course to critically analyse and evaluate technical/technological design solutions to address specific issues related to the field of Architectural Technology
• To demonstrate their ability to carry out independent research and development work and to gain experience at managing a substantive piece of research work
• to develop written and verbal communication skills;
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
The ability to synthesize and integrate complex information in a precise and coherent manner to produce a technical report of professional standards
LO2
To undertake systematic research and critical evaluation of the body of available technical information and evidence on a chosen subject to substantial depth.
LO3
To search, select and critically assess literature and material relevant to a chosen area;
LO4
to communicate effectively in writing a programme of work and, orally defend the research in a logical, precise and coherent manner; to demonstrate ability to exercise judgment, independent thought, initiative, intellectual achievement, understanding of the chosen subject matter, and the principles being applied to develop.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Dissertation overview
A dissertation is a written piece of work on a set subject, showing systematic information gathering and synthesis of information in a clear and reflective way.
The outcome of this exercise will be a well-organized Technical report upto 8000 words (max) which demonstrates the student’s ability to clearly understand, analyze, reflect upon, synthesize and discuss a chosen topic. The dissertation requires the student to demonstrate her/his understanding of a topic associated with Technical Design through a sequence of words and images, on an agreed theme.
The dissertation should help students form a comprehensive and coherent analysis of considerations to demonstrate and explain the origins and validity of certain
technical design solution to a given design context. The subject can be analysed from a variety of viewpoints including architectural positions, regulatory influences, technical and technological considerations or influential projects to develop it into an 8000 (max) word, well-illustrated report The topics for research could be from broad themes and can include areas such as,
Material Study ( for specific area or context)
• Performance criteria
• Specification strategies
• Challenges regarding sustainable selection from a pallet of materials and the appropriate incorporation in detail design of selected material.
Technical Ability
• Evaluation of techniques
• build-ability within the framework of;
a. standards and legislation
b. quality and performance
• health and safety considerations
• durability
• research and innovation
• Green specification solutions etc.
Synthesis of design and technology and holistic methodologies reflecting on:
• Environmental design and principles
• Building regulations & compliance
• Conservation principles and guidelines
• Information technology and Building information modelling etc.
Assessment Breakdown
%
Continuous Assessment
10.00%
Project
90.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Presentation
n/a
4
5.00
Sem 1 End
Presentation
n/a
4
5.00
Sem 2 End
Project
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Project
n/a
1,2,3
90.00
n/a
No Practical
No End of Module Formal Examination
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment