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Learning Outcomes

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Formulate for the Final Project a project outline that demonstrates originality in techniques and research methods

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• engage with inclusive, ethical and sustainability practices in designing a project that advances your professional development.

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• How to evaluate and select appropriate methods in formulating an ethically rigorous project design that advances current ideas and debates related to Environmental and Spatial Design

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Apply and evaluate a range of research methods to investigate spatial contexts, demonstrating an understanding of their relevance, limitations and potential impact in spatial design practice.

The module develops students’ understanding of research strategies that inform spatial design practice. It focuses on how research can be used to investigate spatial conditions, environmental challenges and social contexts, supporting the formulation of a research proposal for the Final Project. The syllabus builds research learning and methodological awareness, enabling students to critically assess research approaches and apply them to design-led inquiry. Indicative topics and activities may include: - Framing research problems, defining research questions and establishing project objectives - Contextual and spatial analysis methods, including mapping, observation and site-based investigation - Qualitative, participatory and community-based research approaches - Visual and spatial research techniques such as diagramming, mapping and prototyping - Research ethics, sustainability and inclusive design frameworks - Methods for evaluating design impact and communicating research proposals The module culminates in the development of a research poster that outlines the proposed Final Project topic, research aims, methods and anticipated impact.

Teaching and learning in this module combine lectures, seminars, workshops and studio-based discussions that support the development of research literacy and methodological awareness. Lectures introduce key theories, debates and research frameworks relevant to spatial design, sustainability and social impact. Workshops and seminars allow students to experiment with different research methods, test approaches to spatial analysis and explore how research informs design practice. Tutorials and critique sessions provide opportunities for students to discuss their research ideas, refine their research questions and receive feedback on the development of their research proposal. Teaching and learning methods include: - Lectures introducing research methodologies and design research frameworks - Seminars exploring spatial theory, sustainability and research ethics - Workshops on visual, spatial and participatory research methods - Tutorials and critique sessions supporting research proposal development - Student presentations and peer feedback sessions - Independent research and reading supporting the development of a research poster The learning approach emphasises critical inquiry, experimentation and reflective practice, enabling students to develop research strategies that support meaningful and responsible spatial design outcomes.

Formative

This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.

Research poster

• Assessment Type: Formative
• Feedback:
• Final Assessment: No
• Group Work: No
• Percentage contribution: 100%

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.