The subject offers a thematic inquiry into architectural and urban theory in the broader context of philosophical schools of thought and cultural and social conditions, which may include modernism, postmodernism, phenomenology, semiotics, post-structuralism, deconstruction and critical regionalism. These themes will guide the organization of weekly lecture and discussions, which will proceed from the establishment of a basic theoretical apparatus to the examination of specific cases. These will supply us with tools for the analysis of specific architectural situations. Students will develop a written synopsis of a designated reading, and an in-depth and analytical research paper on the designated topic.

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Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the theoretical issues related to design through study of architecture and urbanism and its related studies

2. Identify the different architectural theories which inform the development of architecture and urban forms

3. Analyze and critique the relationship between architecture and its social, cultural, and intellectual context

4. Analyze architecture and urban forms in relation to relevant architectural theories

5. Produce, orally and in writing, a critical interpretation of architecture and urbanism in relation to relevant theories within the contemporary discourse of architecture