Course Description
An introduction to the elements, principles, and processes of design within the context of a range of ways of thinking and problem-solving. The course provides an open design studio setting to explore problem-solving through design change in the landscape. The iterative process and heuristic learning will be emphasized. Group projects will offer a chance for students to continue to master their team-building and communication skills.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Students are required to complete landscape materials readings
and associated practice exercises, as well as work as leaders
in teams for a final project. Graduate students will also be
required to lead a seminar reading discussion based on their
individual research findings and craft a paper advancing the
body of knowledge on landscape materials. Additional design and
presentation requirement details for each project assigned
(e.g., more detailed drawings, documents).
Athena Title
Cultural Land Design Studio
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Knowledge: 1. Describe the range of design elements and principles that can be manipulated in a landscape. 2. Identify a range of cognitive processes with a focus on creative and critical thinking. 3. Identify a range of design processes used to problem-solve in design. Skills: 1. Evaluate a range of design solutions and their effect on cultural landscape significance and integrity. 2. Apply design processes to solve problems in cultural landscapes. 3. Manipulate design principles to effect change in a landscape. 4. Demonstrate a range of thinking skills to problem-solve. 5. Critique design changes using the elements and principles of design and cultural landscape preservation theory. 6. Communicate design ideas clearly and effectively. 7. Demonstrate team-building skills. Values: 1. Appreciate the range of design solutions that can solve a particular problem. 2. Appreciate the ethical dilemmas and practical challenges involved in effecting design changes in the cultural landscape. 3. Develop a personal work ethic that is professional and collegial.
Topical Outline
Topical Outline: 1. Introduction to ways of thinking to problem-solve. 2. Introduction to the elements and principles of design using a studio problem. 3. Introduction to the processes of design, including design for management and design by management using several short studio problems. 4. Case Study Evaluation: Evaluation of a design change in a cultural landscape in order to address sustainability issues and how those changes affect significance and integrity. 5. Group Studio Problem: Inventory and analysis of a cultural landscape to pinpoint issues and problems. 6. Group Studio Problem: Design for cultural landscape with a newly revised mission.