Sustainable Mega-Buildings (MSc)

How will I be taught?

The methods of teaching we employ will vary from module to module, as appropriate depending on the subject matter and the method of assessment. We teach using a mixture of lectures, seminars, workshops, study visits, project work, and group tutorials.

In lectures and workshops, we aim to make appropriate use of audio-visual support to aid learning and development of subject-specific skills. You will be given access to relevant teaching materials through the University’s virtual learning environment, Learning Central.

The specialist modules on the course include project work, where you will use mega-building case studies to build 3D physical models in the School’s workshop and Digital Fabrication Lab and can test them in the School’s artificial sky dome.

You will also be taught to use various environmental simulation software programmes, some of which have been developed in the Welsh School of Architecture.

Finally, you will research an area of sustainable mega-building design and planning of interest to you and submit a dissertation based on this research. Your dissertation will be conducted independently with supervision by a member of staff.

How will I be assessed?

Taught and project-based modules are assessed in a variety of different ways depending on the module content and learning outcomes (found in the module descriptions). We use class tests, course work (both written assignments and oral presentations or critical assessments/reviews), and project work, or a combination of these, to assess your progress on the module.

In the dissertation stage, your dissertation is the sole object of assessment. The dissertation is a written report on a piece of research which you have carried out in an agreed subject area under supervision.

How will I be supported?

All of our students are allocated a personal tutor when they enrol on the course. A personal tutor is there to support you during your studies, and can advise you on academic and personal matters that may be affecting you. You should have regular meetings with your personal tutor to ensure that you are fully supported.

You will have access to our bespoke Architecture Library, as well as to materials in the other Cardiff University Libraries.

Feedback

We offer written and oral feedback, depending on the coursework or assessment you have undertaken. You will usually receive your feedback from the module leader. If you have questions regarding your feedback, module leaders are usually happy to give advice and guidance on your progress.

What skills will I practise and develop?

On completing the course you should be able to:

• Understand the principles and strategies relevant to designing sustainable mega-buildings.
• Explain how the philosophy and theory of designing mega-buildings relates to the built environment in a wider regulatory context.
• Evaluate key theoretical and methodological perspectives in employing building modelling and energy simulation tools, on-site observations and monitoring, comparative performance data and calculate results to tackle specific design problems and explorations.
• Critically analyse, interpret and evaluate complex information, concepts, theories and tools to develop original applications of knowledge.
• Identify and apply appropriate analytical and technical tools, techniques and equipment, and computer software in conceptualising and addressing challenging design problems.
• Demonstrate autonomy and originality in use of appropriate technologies and in determining approaches in response to the demands from government initiatives, legislation and the public for enhanced environmental performance of mega-buildings.
• Critically evaluate decisions, methods and results when tackling problems and formulating sustainable design guidelines and proposals for new and existing mega-buildings.