Module manager: May Newisar
Email: m.newisar@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
BA/BEng Architecture, Architectural Engineering or related degrees
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module provides an in-depth exploration of architecture and urban design within a global context, focusing on how cultural, social, and environmental factors shape urban environments. It aims to equip students with the skills to address complex urban challenges by integrating local identities with global best practices. Students will engage with contemporary urban design theories through lectures, seminars, and discussions, applying these concepts to global case studies.
This module introduces students to key concepts and practices in urban design. This curriculum examines the foundational principles of urban design, providing a historical perspective on city development, public space creation, and the ways cultural, social, and environmental factors shape urban forms.
1. Provide students with a deep understanding of the complexities and unique challenges in the interrelationship between architecture and urban design on an international scale.
2. Explore the diverse cultural, socio-economic, and environmental contexts, fostering a global perspective in the development of built urban environments.
3. Drawing on diverse contexts, to expand on the complexities of decision-making processes, the roles of various stakeholders, and the challenges faced by practitioners in shaping urban environments.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1: Understand the socio-cultural, economic, and environmental factors influencing urban design in different international settings.
2: Analyse how historical, political, and cultural contexts shape urban form and function globally.
3: Critically assess the influence of globalisation on urbanisation processes, urban morphology, and the socio-economic dynamics of cities.
4: Explore the role of international organisations, policies, and collaborations in shaping urban development.
5: Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and adaptability in addressing the needs and aspirations of communities in different parts of the world.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills :
a. Critical thinking
b. Problem-solving.
c. Define problems systematically.
d. Evaluate policy interventions.
e. Communicate complex urban development concepts.
Global Urbanism
Sustainability and resilience
Cultural identity and place-making
Social equity and public space
Urban policy and governance
Methods of assessment
The assessment details for this module will be provided at the start of the academic year
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fieldwork | 1 | 8 | 8 |
| Lecture | 10 | 2 | 20 |
| Seminar | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Private study hours | 112 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 38 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
- Oral feedback from convener following in-class presentations (formative)
- Summative feedback via Blackboard 21 days after submission
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 30/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team