Module manager: May Newisar
Email: m.newisar@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
BA/BEng Architecture, Architectural Engineering or related degrees
This module is not approved as an Elective
The module allows students to gain research and professional skills through independent research that promotes critical analysis of current local and global challenges.
This module enables students to design and develop a comprehensive project centred around a research theme, drawing upon the integrated knowledge and skills acquired from all the taught modules in the program.
1. Identify and define pertinent problems and research gaps relevant to a specific aspect of the MSc programme.
2. Systematically compile and critically assess the relevant literature, ensuring adherence to principles of scientific rigor and integrity.
3. Develop and manage a structured work plan to collect, analyse, and synthesise data, with appropriate consideration for research ethics, intellectual property, health and safety, and risk management.
4. Present findings in a logical and coherent manner, maintaining a high standard of research integrity.
5. Developed well-founded conclusions, incorporating critical self-reflection and insights gained.
6. Communicate effectively through clear, structured, and professionally written research.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Ability to formulate a focused research question or hypothesis and perform thorough research using appropriate methods and tools.
2. Critically assess literature, theories, and precedents, and evaluate the relevance of findings within a broader architectural context.
3. Demonstrating competence in defining and addressing complex architectural challenges, taking into account social, cultural, environmental, and technological aspects.
4. Establishing a structured plan to oversee a significant research project, including setting goals, managing timelines, and allocating resources effectively.
5. Applying theoretical knowledge to architectural design, illustrating how research informs and enhances practical design solutions.
6. Effective presentation of research results through a well-organised and clearly written dissertation, incorporating visual material when necessary, and adhering to academic writing standards.
7. Demonstrate understanding of and commitment to ethical standards in research
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills:
a. Ability to plan, design, and execute research projects.
b. Ability to critically assess architectural theories, designs, and literature.
c. Knowledge in identifying and addressing complex architectural challenges.
d. Proficiency in organisational and time management.
e. Capability to collect, interpret, and analyse qualitative and quantitative data relevant to architectural research.
Indicative content:
1. Introduction.
2. Literature reviews.
3. Research methodologies: research design, data collection and analysis methods, ethical considerations.
4. Design concept and integration of theoretical and practical aspects.
5. Case Studies.
6. Presentation and interpretation of research findings in relation to research questions.
7. Referencing.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 12 | 2 | 24 |
| Lecture | 10 | 2 | 20 |
| Seminar | 2 | 3 | 6 |
| Private study hours | 550 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 50 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 600 | ||
Students will receive formative feedback during supervision meetings which should take place every two weeks for one hour each to monitor progress of the dissertation.
There is no reading list for this module
Last updated: 30/04/2025
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