Units / ARC2401
ARC2401 · Positions and dialogues in architecture 1
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 2Department of Architecture
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
This unit focuses on the multiple histories and narratives of architecture as a form of cultural production. The core structure for this unit will critically interrogate the formation of the discipline and institution of architecture along with the shifting role of the architect. It is the first of two undergraduate architectural history and theory core units that include a range of secondary examples and content delivered in parallel and organised according to key themes. Working between themed material and core content will equip you with skills and approaches for active listening, reading, academic writing, oral dialogues/exchange and collaborative research.
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Caulfield | First semester | Some activities have a choice of on-campus or online teaching activities (FLEXIBLE) |
Assessment
The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Research task | Written | 15% | — |
| 2 | Presentation | Presentation | 25% | — |
| 3 | Essay | Written | 60% | — |
100% in-semester assessment
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
prerequisite
corequisite
- OHS1000 — Introduction to art and design health and safety
Learning outcomes
- Recognise that there are multiple histories, theories, perspectives and knowledges that inform an understanding of the discipline of architecture;
- Demonstrate an understanding of architectural and urban histories and theories through group discussions, dialogues and documentation;
- Synthesise and evaluate information from multiple sources in order to develop and communicate a position;
- Collaborate with your peers to find and share relevant information when undertaking research;
- Respectfully and ethically engage with existing knowledge, source material and viewpoints;
- Recognise and reflect on successful strategies for recording categorising information.
Workload
12 hours work per week including 2-4 contact hours plus 8-10 hours of independent study, or equivalent.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Seminars | 8 hours |
| Tutorials | 24 hours |
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