Making Architecture offers unique insight into the mind and work of an architect. Through this course, learners will develop a designer mindset, analyze the impact of natural and cultural environments on architectural designs, imagine architectural space by applying design principles, and craft compelling stories about their designs. By completing this course, learners will gain transformative skills in creativity and problem-solving as they apply techniques like divergent thinking while honing their capacity for empathy and observation. Ultimately, learners will be able to apply what they learn in this course to enrich their own contexts -- beyond just architecture and design.
This course is intended for a varied audience! It serves as a wonderful introduction for learners who seek to formally study architecture and for those who are interested in simply learning more about the process of design. The course is also a fantastic resource for professionals in any discipline who want to push their creative thinking, brainstorming capabilities, storytelling skills, and problem-solving.
In this course, we're not just going to tell you what the architect does — we're going to show you. You're going to actually do — on a small scale — the work that an architect does. The work of an architect is to have a certain vision about how things might be better, and we're going to give you an introduction to that mindset and to that way of working. The study of architecture engages a vast range of skills: You learn how to work in teams, you learn how to communicate, you learn how to think critically and analytically, and you learn to exercise your creativity. In this first module, we'll start by dispelling some of the myths about what it means to be an architect. We're also going to talk about what an architect does and does not do. You'll also work on short exercises to stretch your creative muscles and get you going in the design process.
Nothing is stopping you from becoming an architect•3 minutes
What do architects make?•3 minutes
Between people and trees•3 minutes
What I mean when I say "architecture"•4 minutes
You are not alone•4 minutes
Synchronize your design•3 minutes
Architects do not just make buildings•5 minutes
Let’s play a game called "finding architects"•4 minutes
An interview with Cristoph Ingenhoven•3 minutes
The secret art of mind-reading•4 minutes
Creativity starts by asking stupid questions•5 minutes
How to open up to original ideas•6 minutes
Use your hands to think better•4 minutes
Module 1 conclusion•1 minute
1 reading•Total 5 minutes
Riads in Morocco•5 minutes
4 assignments•Total 30 minutes
Reflecting on what the architect does•5 minutes
Reflecting on the space between people and trees•10 minutes
Reflecting on synchronization•5 minutes
Module 1 graded quiz•10 minutes
2 discussion prompts•Total 20 minutes
Inspiration is everywhere•10 minutes
Creative exercise in divergent thinking•10 minutes
Architecture in Context: The Natural Environment and the Cultural Environment
Module 2•4 hours to complete
Module details
In this module, we'll discuss the work of architecture in a wider context. We'll explore the architect's relationship with the natural environment as well as the cultural environment. By the end of the module, you'll be able to think about the broader natural and social context in which a project exists and how that context can influence design. We'll also introduce the assignment structure of the course!
How you will work in this course: Intro to the course assignment•5 minutes
Your first design mission: The course assignment•7 minutes
Training the eye•2 minutes
Reading the natural environment•4 minutes
Finding inspiration from the natural environment•4 minutes
Reading the cultural environment•4 minutes
Finding inspiration from the cultural environment•4 minutes
Prep for Assignment Part 3: How to map activities to spaces•6 minutes
3 readings•Total 20 minutes
IMPORTANT: Key summary of the course assignment and grading policy•10 minutes
Nigel Henderson's photographs•5 minutes
Lucien Kroll and La Mémé student housing in Louvain, Belgium•5 minutes
1 assignment•Total 10 minutes
Module 2 graded quiz•10 minutes
3 discussion prompts•Total 150 minutes
Assignment Part 1: Stock up•60 minutes
Assignment Part 2: Create your site model•60 minutes
Assignment Part 3: Mapping the activities•30 minutes
Creating Spaces
Module 3•3 hours to complete
Module details
In this module, we'll delve deeper into the technical side of architecture. We'll explore essential principles such as composition, hierarchy, balance, and space to ensure that a structure connects with people living near it and interacting with it on a daily basis. We'll also explore how architects use the natural and physical environment to stimulate their creative process by taking a look at incredible examples from renowned architects.
Assignment Part 4: Compositions in space•60 minutes
The Design Process
Module 4•4 hours to complete
Module details
In this module, we'll focus on developing the story behind your design. All great architects have great stories, and we'll give you some insight into some of those in this module. You'll also explore how you can develop your own story, which will enable you to build the necessary emotional connection to your design. You'll also learn how to use photography and relevant social media tools to make your design look as attractive as possible to a wider audience.
IE Business School is an internationally recognized business school where the leaders of tomorrow shape their ideas and learn to become global citizens. For over 40 years, IE Business School has promoted innovation and change in organizations, equipping managers with an entrepreneurial mindset that generates employment, wealth, and social well-being.
Regularly featured among the top business schools in the world, IE Business School has an urban campus in Madrid and a faculty of more than 400 professors who teach students from approximately 90 countries in its undergraduate and master programs. IE uses innovative online, face-to-face, and blended learning formats, including the IE Communities Platform where knowledge and experiences are exchanged with over 50,000 IE graduates that currently hold management positions in more than 100 countries worldwide.
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F
FT
5·
Reviewed on Dec 15, 2020
this was a very good course that I learned a very essential and constructive introduction about architecture thank you so much for your amazing faculties.
K
KP
5·
Reviewed on Aug 10, 2021
This course changed my entire view on ARCHITECTURE.... If I had any doubts before, I don't anymore... I AM GOING TO BE AN ARCHITECT. THANK YOU COUSERA!
K
KE
5·
Reviewed on May 31, 2020
Course was very nice I like it thanks for Coursera. Coursera is very good platform for Learning & Gaining. Thank you so much Coursera & all hole team
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What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?
When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.