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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. 1. Seminar.
• Skills: able to create theory-based design solutions in the process of project idea development and project development. 2. Seminar; 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. 2. Seminar, Final examination.

Course Content(Calendar)

In full-time face-to-face studies:
1. Introduction to the theory of landscape architecture. (lectures 4 h)
2. The concept of landscape and its application in various sectors. Use of technology in landscape architecture studies (lectures 4 h)
3. The concept of landscape architecture and its importance, as well as its correct application. (lectures 4 h)
4. Development of cultural history principles, political framework, and guidelines. (lectures 4 h)
5. Development of aesthetic principles - functionalism, universal design. (lectures 4 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 4 h)
8. 1. Seminar. Evaluation of territories by determining development scenarios according to certain design problems. (practical work 4 h)
9. Aspects influencing the theory of landscape architecture. Globalization, migration. (lectures 4 h)
10. Aspects influencing the theory of landscape architecture. Climate change, changing values in society, technological development. (lectures 4 h)
11. Detailed study of various implemented projects. Sketches, project description, project schedule, implementation, and use. ArcGIS Desktop output data in the context of Latvia. (Lab work 4 h)
12. Landscape architecture, urbanism, architecture - points of contact. (Lectures 4h) (Laboratory work 2h)
13. Critical analysis of project descriptions and graphic materials. (practical work 4 h)
14. Critical analysis of realized projects is linked to the project. (lectures 4 h)
15. 2. Seminar. Bringing scientific theories to life. Collection of examples. (practical work 4 h)

16. Final test. (practical work 4 h)

Requirements for awarding credit points

Attendance not less than 75%. The works to be evaluated were submitted at the specified time. For works submitted after a certain time (if there is no valid reason), the mark is reduced by 1 ball. In order to pass the study course, the study papers must be positively evaluated.

Description of the organization and tasks of students’ independent work

1. Seminar. The conceptual development of the chosen territory must be formed, forming a close connection with a specific vision of a scientist or a group of scientists. The results should be presented by presenting them digitally and explaining the proposed territorial development solutions.
2. Seminar. A detailed vision of a practicing and internationally recognized landscape architect and their work should be provided, explaining the underlying theoretical findings as well as their evolution over time.
Graduation work. It is necessary to create a theoretical vision for the topicality and substantiation of the master's thesis, as well as to create a connection with the research conducted so far in the world and in Latvia. The final work should be in the form of a reasoned essay, as well as present the main findings in the form of a presentation.

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 VBF study program "Landscape Architecture and Planning" (Master of Professional Higher Education). The study course is also taught in English.