Programme Specification for Architecture: Computing and Design Grad Cert.
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Grad Cert. |
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Intermediate awards available |
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UCAS code |
N/A |
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Details of professional body accreditation |
N/A |
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Relevant QAA Benchmark statements |
Architecture, Architectural Technology and Landscape Architecture Benchmarking statement |
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Date specification last up-dated |
05.03.07 |
Profile
The summary - UCAS programme profile
Programme Content
The programme aims to give the student familiarity with the techniques and skills of end user scripting in Computer aided design in the context of architectural design. The three components allow students to explore
- Automating modelling tasks
- Integration of CAD and data
- Intelligent component design
- Using generative modelling skills to explore design
The programme provides a well constructed teaching strategy which is the result of 15 years experience of teaching the MSc Computing & Design. It offers a distillation of the Master’s programme covering only the technical skill sets that people working in the construction industry need to become active in the new field of CAD scripting and macro programming.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Applicants for the programme may be graduates of architecture or qualified professionals; however they do not need degree level qualification. Practical experience or Higher National Diploma or equivalent can serve. People with previous degrees from disciplines outside Architecture and Design will also be considered. Generally students need to demonstrate a level of understanding of the design process in architecture and an interest in developing computer aided design skills. People whose first language is not English will need to be proficient to IELTS 6.5 grade.
At least two members of academic staff will review each application before a decision is made. In most cases an interview will be part of the evaluation process.
Applicants with either prior-certified learning or prior-experiential learning that closely matches the specified learning outcomes of the programme may be able to claim exemption via agreed university procedures.
Progression
On successful completion of this programme with a classification of Merit or above, students may apply to join the MSC Computing and design programme.
ABOUT THE PROGRAMME
Programme structure
The programme consists of one 40 Credit level 3 module, taking one semester and is offered twice a year. Lectures are shared with the MSc. computing and design programme.
Learning environment
Scripting classes are held on one day a week, supported by web based teaching and a collaborative web sharing environment .(WIKI)
This web based teaching accounts for a further half day equivalent per week of teaching time. The web based learning tools provide the following:
- Opportunity to air problems with their projects and request assistance from tutors and other students.
- Post up work in progress for evaluation and comments
- Assignments and source data, useful links etc are posted to the web
- A resource base of existing student work, and other items provided by staff is available to all students
- Students are encouraged to set up their own blogs and link them to the WIKI
The programming classes take place in the computing and design labs, equipped with well specified PCs and full high bandwidth networking including campus wide wireless networking for students’ own laptops. The docklands campus provides 24/7 access to the library, and easy access via DLR. Teaching is led by researchers and practitioners who are making a leading contribution to this new field of design computation
Assessment
Student programme work is assessed continuously, with each item getting feedback before the subsequent one is set. The final item of work is a design exercise using scripting skills developed over the programme.
Work experience/placement opportunities
The programme has grown out of discussions with members of the architectural profession. The students will be in a good position to participate in advanced modelling groups in larger practices. There is an increasing need to provide design support systems through integrating disparate applications with the CAD system encouraging large synergies. To take of advantage of these systems, architects need to understand the basics of scripting and programming. This programme directly addresses this with a timely and focussed intensive training process.
Added value
The programme provides a route to enrolment on the MSc Computing & Design for those not otherwise qualified.
Your future career
This programme provides essential skills for advanced modelling in large architectural practices.
How we support you
All students are supported by the staff of the MSc Programme, and the staff of the GradCert programme. Day to day communication is made available via the CECA WIKI and UEL Plus / UELPlus learning support services
Bonus factors
The ongoing research of the MSc Computing & Design and the links to architectural studios provided by staff give students good opportunities to learn the working methods of actual practice. Selected students can take part in a Mentor scheme, run jointly between UEL and AEDAS Architects, where students can work with architects on useful projects in the office.
Outcomes
Programme aims and learning outcomes
What is this programme designed to achieve?
This programme is designed to give you the opportunity to:
- Training in a range of macro programming languages for automating CAD. Using this technology, students will be able to develop scripts for automating cad operations, linking different applications and designing intelligent design aids.
- Education in the implications for design of these new technologies. The associated lectures (from the MSc Computing & Design) help to set the technical skills in the wider design and practice context. The preparation of reports is a guided process where students learn how to present both design ideas and technical projects.
- Practical training for building design support systems by linking different applications. Students will be able to develop solutions to complex design situations, requiring the interaction with a range of specialists an a design team. This is especially the case if the student can take part in the AEDAS Mentor process
What will you learn?
Knowledge and understanding
- How to define a small programming project; data requirements and overall interface design
- How to interpret and define a scripting project in collaboration with the design architect, what questions to ask, how to extract design intentions and data needs for the project team
'Thinking' skills
- Thinking algorithmically – how to define the computational strategy for a design task
Subject-Based Practical skills
- programming in selected languages – currently Visual Basic for Applications
- how to write scripts and macros in AutoCAD, Microstation, Rhino and excel
Skills for life and work
- how to set up and deliver technical reports for the 3 components of the module. Clarity timeliness and high presentation skills are encouraged, which as in all architectural education are vital for continuing professional development.
Structure
The programme structure
Introduction
The programme is one semester long and runs in semester A and Semester B. The final award is 40 credits
Student/Staff Contact time (including web based) 182 hours consisting of Programming classes, use of the Web based learning facilities, and lectures.
Student Independent Study 400 hours. This can include professional practice where appropriate.
All programmes are credit-rated to help you to understand the amount and level of study that is needed.
One credit is equal to 10 hours of directed study time (this includes everything you do e.g. lecture, seminar and private study).
Credits are assigned to one of 5 levels:
- 0 - equivalent in standard to GCE 'A' level and is intended to prepare students for year one of an undergraduate degree programme
- 1 - equivalent in standard to the first year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme
- 2 - equivalent in standard to the second year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme
- 3 - equivalent in standard to the third year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme
- M - equivalent in standard to a Masters degree
Credit rating
The overall credit-rating of this programme is 360 credits.
Typical duration
One semester.
Starting September (Semester A) or February (Semester B)
How the teaching year is divided
Proposed curriculum
- Scripting classes in Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) . Learning to automate the production of geometry in standard cad packages (AutoCAD Microstation & Rhino) to generate conceptual models, detailed skin and structural architectures, digital output to fabrication etc
A series of 14 weeks , one day per week to provide 40 credits and the award of the Graduate Diploma in Architecture: Computing & Design
Weeks 1 - 4 Simple VBA programming
- General concepts of syntax through geometric explorations line surface volume(2)
- User forms (GUI interface)(2)
- More complex data structures (arrays user defined types)
- Using blocks / cells
Weeks 5 - 8 Manipulating data and linking with other applications
- Using Excel with object linking and embedding
- Façade design , panelisation, structural grids plans
- Tagging extended data
- Selection sets
Weeks 9 - 12 Bringing it all together
- Advanced exercises in scripting
- Designing a pavilion / student personal choice of project
- Weeks 13 – 14 marking
Teaching materials are available on the web (including web ct discussion forums and user feedback and the CECA WIKI for collaborative problem solving).
In order to gain a Graduate Certificate, you will need to obtain 40 credits.
What you will study when
This programme is part of a modular degree scheme. A typical full-time student will take six 20 credit modules per year. An honours degree student will complete six modules at level one, six at level 2 and six at level 3.
It is possible to bring together modules from one subject with modules from another to produce a combined programme. Subjects are offered in a variety of combinations:
- Single - 120 credits at levels one, two and three
- Major - 80 credits at levels one, two and three
- Joint - 60 credits at levels one, two and three
- Minor - 40 credits at levels one, two and three
Modules are defined as:
- Core - Must be taken
- Option - Select from a range of identified modules within the field
- University wide option - Select from a wide range of modules across the University
Module 1 Specification
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Module Title: Computing and Design |
Module Code: Level: 3 Credits: 40 ECTS credits:20 |
Module Leader: Additional Tutors: Michael Kohn |
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Pre-requisite: None |
Co-requisite: none |
Excluded Combination: none |
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Is this module part of the Skills Curriculum? No |
University-wide option: No |
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Location of delivery: University of East London, School of Architecture & the Visual Arts |
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Main aims of the module
To provide training in a range of macro programming languages for automating CAD. Using this technology, students will be able to develop scripts for automating cad operations, linking different applications and designing intelligent design aids.
- Education in the implications for design of these new technologies. The associated lectures (from the MSc Computing & Design) help to set the technical skills in the wider design and practice context. The preparation of reports is a guided process where students learn how to present both design ideas and technical projects.
- Practical training for building design support systems by linking different applications. Students will be able to develop solutions to complex design situations, requiring the interaction with a range of specialists in a design team. This is especially the case if the student can take part in the AEDAS Mentor process.
Main Topics of Study:
- Simple VBA programming
- General concepts of syntax through geometric explorations line surface volume(2);
- User forms (GUI interface)(2);
- More complex data structures (arrays user defined types);
- Using blocks / cells.
- Manipulating data and linking with other applications
- Using Excel with object linking and embedding;
- Façade design , panelisation, structural grids plans;
- Tagging extended data;
- Selection sets.
- Intelligent spaces and forms
- Advanced exercises in scripting;
- Designing a pavilion / student personal choice of project.
Learning Outcomes for the Module
At the end of this module students will be able to:
Knowledge
Simple VBA programming
- define a small programming project; data requirements and overall interface design.
Manipulating data and linking with other applications
- share data between different applications to improve workflow.
Intelligent spaces and forms
- interpret and define a scripting project in collaboration with the design architect, what questions to ask, how to extract design intentions and data needs for the project team.
Thinking skills
Simple VBA programming
- Think algorithmically.
Manipulating data and linking with other applications
- Know how to design research in computer aided design.
Intelligent spaces and forms
- set up and deliver technical reports for the 3 components of the module. Clarity timeliness and high presentation skills are encouraged, which as in all architectural education are vital for continuing professional development.
Subject-based practical skills
Simple VBA programming
- script cad operations with VBA.
Manipulating data and linking with other applications
- script selection sets and in Visual Basic.
Intelligent spaces and forms
- originate and present virtual models of architectural objects.
Skills for life and work (general skills)
Simple VBA programming
- understand the underlying functioning of a computer by being able to read computer code.
Manipulating data and linking with other applications
- analyse the structure of a problem so that it is amenable to computation.
Intelligent spaces and forms
- develop a tool or approach for use in practice
Teaching/ learning methods/strategies used to enable the achievement of learning outcomes:
Classes
Scripting classes where students are given hands on instruction in the use of the programming languages.
Workshops
One week workshops by visiting specialists in (e.g.) robotics and hardware design.
Tutorials
Individual and group tutorials.
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Assessment methods which enable student to demonstrate the learning outcomes for the Module: |
Weighting: |
Learning Outcomes demonstrated |
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Component 1 Simple vba programming: report. Assessment based on reading the report, running the script and seeing how far the learning outcomes have been achieved |
40 % | Knowledge Learning outcome 1 Thinking skills Learning outcome 4 Practical Learning outcome 7 Life Learning outcome 10 |
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Component 2 Manipulating data and linking with other applications :report. Assessment based on the understanding shown in the report of the aspects listed under learning outcomes, and an assessment of the students success in developing a project in collaboration with others |
30 % | Knowledge Learning outcome 2 Thinking skills Learning outcome 5. Practical Learning outcome 8 Life Learning outcome 11 |
| Component 3 Intelligent spaces and forms report A panel comprising staff and invited specialists will attend a presentation by each student of their work to arrive at an overall assessment of all aspects from a design and technology perspective. |
30% | Knowledge Learning outcome 3 Thinking skills Learning outcome 6 Practical Learning outcome 9 Life Learning outcome 12 |
Reading And resources for this Module:
- CORE Kalay, Y, E (2004) - Architecture’s New Media Cambridge Mass; London:MIT
- Kolarevic,B (ed)(2003) Architecture in the digital age New York;London Spon Press
- Leach N & Turnbull D, & C Williams (2004) (eds) Digital Tectonics Chichester:Wiley
RECOMMENDED
- Stephenson, Neal (1999) In the beginning was the Commandline US:Privately published
- Takayuki Miyoshi with Balmond C and Toyo Ito(2002) ‘Serpentine Gallery Pavilion 2002, Kensington Gardens, London’; Toyo Ito with Arup / Toyo Ito,GA Document no 71
- Grand, S Creation (2001); London:Orion Publishing Co
- “Blurring the lines” : an exploration of current CAD / CAM techniques a series of 3 articles
- i Tim Eliassen applications in hardware design and manufacture
- ii Chaszar Glymph (Gehry Partner) CAD / CAM in the business of architecture. Engineering and construction
iii Andre Chaszar bridging the gap with collaborative design programs - in Architectural design magazine UK Vol 73, no 3, May/June 2003
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Indicative Teaching and Learning Time(10 hrs per credit): 400 hours |
Activity |
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Student/Tutor Contact Time: 100 |
Scripting classes and tutorials |
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Student Learning Time: 300 |
Assignment preparation, individual work on scripting. Student hours may be credited for work based practice where relevant. |
Requirements for gaining an award
In order to gain an honours degree you will need to obtain 360 credits including:
- A minimum of 120 credits at level one or higher
- A minimum of 120 credits at level two or higher
- A minimum of 120 credits at level three or higher
In order to gain an ordinary degree you will need to obtain a minimum of 300 credits including:
- A minimum of 120 credits at level one or higher
- A minimum of 120 credits at level two or higher
- A minimum of 60 credits at level three or higher
In order to gain a Diploma of Higher Education you will need to obtain at least 240 credits including a minimum of 120 credits at level one or higher and 120 credits at level two or higher
In order to gain a Certificate of Higher Education you will need to obtain 120 credits at level one or higher.
In order to gain a Foundation Degree you will need to obtain a minimum of 240 credits including:
- A minimum of 120 credits at level one or higher
- A minimum of 120 credits at level two or higher
(A foundation degree is linked to a named Honours degree onto which a student may progress after successful completion of the Foundation degree.)
Degree Classification
Where a student is eligible for an Honours degree, and has gained a minimum of 240 UEL credits at level 2 or level 3 on the programme, including a minimum of 120 UEL credits at level 3, the award classification is determined by calculating:
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The arithmetic mean of the best 100 credits at level 3 |
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2/3 |
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The arithmetic mean of the next best 100 credits at levels 2 and/or 3 |
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1/3 |
and applying the mark obtained as a percentage, with all decimals points rounded up to the nearest whole number, to the following classification
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70% - 100% |
First Class Honours |
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60% - 69% |
Second Class Honours, First Division |
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50% - 59% |
Second Class Honours, Second Division |
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40% - 49% |
Third Class Honours |
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0% - 39% |
Not passed |
Assessment
Teaching, learning and assessment
Teaching and learning
Knowledge and understanding is developed through
- Tutored guidance through recommended reading
- Attending the open MSc Lectures series of visiting specialists on computer aided design
'Thinking' skills are developed through
- Guided group discussions in presentations of scripting outcomes by the students
Practical skills are developed through
- One-to-one guidance on scripting assignments
General skills are developed through
- One to one tutorials monitoring students work and progress
Assessment
Knowledge and understanding is assessed by
- The written reports that are required at the end of each component.
'Thinking' skills are assessed by
- Staff assessment of the negotiation process between scripting development and design ideas
Practical skills are assessed by
- The scripting component of each hand in.
General skills are assessed by
- Timeliness of hand-in of work, general work management of the student, and how well the student has collaborated with professional partners in any joint work.
Quality
How we assure the quality of this programme
Before this programme started
Before this programme started, the following was checked:
- there would be enough qualified staff to teach the programme;
- adequate resources would be in place;
- the overall aims and objectives were appropriate;
- the content of the programme met national benchmark requirements;
- the programme met any professional/statutory body requirements;
- the proposal met other internal quality criteria covering a range of issues such as admissions policy, teaching, learning and assessment strategy and student support mechanisms.
This is done through a process of programme approval which involves consulting academic experts including some subject specialists from other institutions.
How we monitor the quality of this programme
The quality of this programme is monitored each year through evaluating:
- external examiner reports (considering quality and standards);
- statistical information (considering issues such as the pass rate);
- student feedback.
Drawing on this and other information, programme teams undertake the annual Review and Enhancement Process which is co-ordinated at School level and includes student participation. The process is monitored by the Quality and Standards Committee.
Once every six years an in-depth review of the whole field is undertaken by a panel that includes at least two external subject specialists. The panel considers documents, looks at student work, speaks to current and former students and speaks to staff before drawing its conclusions. The result is a report highlighting good practice and identifying areas where action is needed.
The role of the programme committee
This programme has a programme committee comprising all relevant teaching staff, student representatives and others who make a contribution towards the effective operation of the programme (e.g. library/technician staff). The committee has responsibilities for the quality of the programme. It provides input into the operation of the Review and Enhancement Process and proposes changes to improve quality. The programme committee plays a critical role in the quality assurance procedures.
The role of external examiners
The standard of this programme is monitored by at least one external examiner. External examiners have two primary responsibilities:
- To ensure the standard of the programme;
- To ensure that justice is done to individual students.
External examiners fulfil these responsibilities in a variety of ways including:
- Approving exam papers/assignments;
- Attending assessment boards;
- Reviewing samples of student work and moderating marks;
- Ensuring that regulations are followed;
- Providing feedback through an annual report that enables us to make improvements for the future.
Listening to the views of students
The following methods for gaining student feedback are used on this programme:
- Module evaluations
- Student representation on programme committees (meeting 2 times a semester)
- Student/Staff consultative committee (meeting once a semester )
Students are notified of the action taken through:
- Circulating the minutes of the programme committee
- Providing details on the programme WIKI
Listening to the views of others
The following methods are used for gaining the views of other interested parties:
- Questionnaires to former students
- Annual student satisfaction questionnaire
- Industrial liaison committee
Further Information
Alternative locations for studying this programme
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Which elements? |
Taught by UEL staff |
Taught by local staff |
Method of Delivery |
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Where you can find further information
Further information about this programme is available from:
- The UEL web site
- The student handbook
- Module study guides
- UEL Manual of General Regulations and Policies
- UEL Quality Manual
- Regulations for the Academic Framework
- Computing & Design WebPages
- Current External examiners
- External examiner reports (available from UEL virtual learning environment (UELPlus or Moodle))
