GBL 1960 PREPARATORY SEMINAR FOR GREAT STRUCTURES OF EUROPE: TECHNOLOGY AND HISTORY
This preparatory course sets the foundations for students to appreciate and evaluate a variety of structures and cities through Europe. Framed around the theme of Contextual Design, students will gain an introduction to architecture, engineering, urban design and European culture and history. This course will also prepare students for travel logistics and group expectations prior to the Winter Term study abroad experience.
Course Outcomes
- Define “contextual design” and develop a portfolio of materials to support a comparative analysis of contextual design of structures and urban spaces on our course.
- Identify major periods and defining characteristics of European architecture and the societies they reflect over the past 2000 years.
- Examine the technical, historic, cultural, and economic context of European architecture and cities in comparison to local architecture.
- Define a variety of terms related to architectural form and explore regional variations in central forms.
- Identify elements of urban design and practice evaluating how design choices effect social experience.
- Experience the contextual design process via sketching, observation, and development of design interventions
- Prepare for packing, budgeting, safety, and logistical best practices for our travel.
- Collaboratively develop a social contract for behavioral expectations on our shared travel experience.
- Evaluate opportunities and expectations for managing intercultural exposure in a foreign environment.