In this module, students research a specific area of architectural interest that informs their design research, resulting in the submission of a 7,000-9,000-word Thesis. The module supports the development of different research approaches through which students undertake their study, including: humanities-based critical and historical analysis, empirical data collection and analysis, social science methodologies, iterative design research, and technical/scientific applications. In Term 1, students attend Research Methods Seminars towards submitting a 1,000-2,000 word Research Methods Study, and are allocated a Thesis Tutor to work with them towards the submission of the Thesis, at the beginning of Term 3.

Students will develop the basis and theory that informs and underpins their work, whether this is derived from science, cultural theory, technology, architectural history, philosophy or the psychology of perception.

This module works in synergy with the main design module (BARC0175) and both must inform each other.

Accounting for 30% of a student’s work for the whole year it is a distinct part of the Architecture MArch degree, and must be passed independently of all other work. It runs alongside Design module from October to April.

Students completing this module will gain ability in

1. Identification, investigation and communication of a specific area of architectural research interest.

2. Augmentation of their design practice with informed knowledge of one or more of the following: technical, historical and theoretical issues.

3. The role of at least one of the following: history, theory, criticism, science and technology in architectural design research.

4. Development of research as a creative, critical and inventive activity.

5. Development of skills in reading, evidence-based research and writing.

Their final piece of writing should demonstrate a selected area of study that critically informs, augments or extends their design project in technical, historical and theoretical understandings. Demonstration of expertise in one specialism is encouraged and work should demonstrate effective and appropriate ‘critical tools’ that aid advanced understandings of architectural design.