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Theory of Landscape Architecture

Course developer

Course abstract

The study course aims to gain in-depth theoretical knowledge of design approaches under the influence of various schools of landscape architecture and modern changing attitudes. As part of the study subject, students are given the opportunity to practically use various scientific methods that improve and justify design processes. Project-oriented development of territories in the 21st century is used more and more widely, so it is important to understand its principles.

Learning outcomes and their assessment

• Knowledge: knows about the various theories of landscape architecture and how they relate to the design process and outcomes. Final test.
• Skills: able to create theory-based design solutions in the process of project idea development and project development. Final test.

• Competence: able to evaluate the compatibility of various theories and their connection with the legislation and landscape development policy of the specific country, as well as their application in solving specific design issues. Final examination.

Course Content(Calendar)

1. Introduction to the theory of landscape architecture. (lectures 2 h)
2. The concept of landscape and its application in various sectors. Use of technologies in landscape architecture research (lectures 4 h)
3. The concept of landscape architecture and its meaning, as well as its correct application. (lectures 2 h)
4. Development of cultural history principles, political framework, and guidelines. (lectures 4 h)
5. Development of aesthetic principles - functionalism, universal design. (lectures 2 h)
6. Application of ecology, and sustainability ideas in projects - challenges and opportunities. (lectures 4 h)
7. Economic justification of landscape architecture projects, justification of investment. (lectures 2 h)
8. Aspects influencing the theory of landscape architecture. Climate change, changing values in society, and development of technologies. (lectures 2 h) (practical work 2 h)
9. Aspects influencing the theory of landscape architecture. Globalization, migration. (lectures 2 h)
10. Territorial assessment by determining development scenarios according to certain design issues. (practical work 4 h)
11. Landscape architecture, urbanism, architecture - points of contact. (Lectures 2 h)
12. Detailed study of various implemented projects. Sketches, project description, project graphics, implementation, and use. ArcGIS Desktop output data in the Latvian context. (practical work 4 h)
13. Critical analysis of project descriptions and graphic materials. (practical work 2 h)
14. Critical analysis of about implemented projects. (lectures 2 h)
15. Bringing scientific theories to life. Collection of examples. (practical work 4 h)

16. Final examination paper. (seminar 4 h)

Requirements for awarding credit points

Attendance not less than 75%. The works to be evaluated were submitted at the specified time. Works submitted after the specified time (unless there is a justifiable reason) will have their grade reduced in accordance with the assessment rules approved by the institute. In order to pass the study course, the study papers must be positively evaluated.

Description of the organization and tasks of students’ independent work

Final test: Compilation of Best Practice Experience in Landscape Architecture and Planning (Best practice examples relevant to the chosen master's thesis topic) – Political framework, guidelines, and exemplary cases in landscape architecture and planning practice. An individual written work. The thesis should include diagrams for graphical problem-solving – models, maps, spatial connections, etc.

Criteria for Evaluating Learning Outcomes

The evaluation of the study course exam depends on the evaluation of the seminar task and the cumulative evaluation of the final work of the study course. The decisive mark is the final work.
The final work and the seminar are evaluated in accordance with the evaluation procedure specified in the assignment.

Compulsory reading

•Ferracina, S. (2022). A Philosophy of Landscape Construction: The Vision of Built Landscapes, Routledge.
•Sharky, B. (2016). Thinking about landscape architecture: Principles of a design profession for the 21st century. Routledge.

•Herrington, S. (2016). Landscape theory in design. Taylor & Francis.

Further reading

•Bell, S., Herlin, I. S., & Stiles, R. (Eds.). (2011). Exploring the boundaries of landscape architecture. Routledge.
•Bowring, J. (2020). Landscape architecture criticism. Routledge.

•Prominski, M., & Seggern, H. (Eds.). (2019). Design research for urban landscapes: theories and methods. Routledge.

Periodicals and other sources

1. Landscape Architecture. The magazine of the american society of landscape architects. Journal of Landscape Architecture (Jola).

Notes

Compulsory course in full-time studies of MVZF study program "Landscape Architecture and Planning" (Master of Professional Higher Education). The study course is also taught in English.