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Federico von Borstel

This is a course that studies Islamic Architecture. The course begins with the origins of the first examples of Islamic Architecture and traces its development across space and time. We start with the humble, but all important tent, and then study the development and the variations across regions of this architecture and its components. I teach lecture courses and studios as I wish they would have been taught to me. Much of the graphic material in my lectures is taken or generated first hand directly by me on site. I teach to learn. I teach subjects as I wish they were taught to me. The Mission Statement. Education is a tool for the improvement of successive generations. I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. Confucius

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This is a course that studies Islamic Architecture. The course begins with the origins of the first examples of Islamic Architecture and traces its development across space and time. We start with the humble, but all important tent, and then study the development and the variations across regions of this architecture and its components. I teach lecture courses and studios as I wish they would have been taught to me. Much of the graphic material in my lectures is taken or generated first hand directly by me on site. I teach to learn. I teach subjects as I wish they were taught to me. The Mission Statement. Education is a tool for the improvement of successive generations. I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. Confucius

This course is designed under the premise that humans should be taught in a way that is modeled after the educational patterns of evolution.

The design, development and application of educational systems based on the educational principles of evolution generates a philosophy and methodology of education in synchrony with the evolutionary education system that is firmly and deeply rooted in each of us.

Education for evolution is an educational system designed to help propel humans forward in the natural course of evolution. The purpose of education for evolution is to enhance and strengthen the natural evolutionary process of humans through the mechanism of education. The means to achieve this objective is the design of a curricula based on the same educational techniques and strategies used by natural evolution, enhanced and guided by the application of conscious educational decisions.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • This is a course on islamic architecture.
  • The course promotes self-learning.
  • The course seeks to enrich your life experience.
  • The course enhances human development.

Syllabus

Introduction
Islamic Architecture Lecture 2
Islamic Architecture Lecture 3
Islamic Architecture Lecture 4
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the development of Islamic architecture across different regions, offering insights into its variations and components
Begins with the origins of Islamic architecture, tracing its evolution from early examples to its manifestations across time
Features graphic material generated first-hand on site, potentially offering unique visual insights and perspectives
Promotes self-learning, which may benefit students who are independent and motivated to explore the subject matter

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Reviews summary

Engaging overview of islamic architecture

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive overview of Islamic Architecture. Students particularly praise the passionate and knowledgeable instructor and the use of excellent visual materials like photographs, which many found engaging. However, a frequent point raised, especially in older reviews but also noted recently, is the poor audio quality in some lectures, described as distracting and needing technical improvement. While providing a solid introduction, some learners felt the course could benefit from more in-depth analysis and supplemental materials like assignments or quizzes to reinforce learning.
Good introductory overview but lacks deeper detail for some.
"It is a general overview and not an in depth analysis, which is fine if that is what you are looking for."
"...the course seemed shallow at times (covering broad topics with little in-depth analysis)..."
"Very shallow course."
"Provides a very solid overview of the history and development of Islamic Architecture."
"Excellent introduction..."
Instructor's passion and use of visuals are highly praised.
"Professor is very enthusiastic & knowledgeable about the subject..."
"...beautiful presentation with excellent visual information..."
"The professor is clearly very passionate about the subject, and his lectures are engaging."
"Excellent introduction to the subject, clearly presented with great images."
"Instructor is extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic."
Reviewers noted a lack of assignments or readings.
"There were no assignments or questions to check your understanding or to really apply the knowledge."
"I wish there were assignments or quizzes."
"...no quiz, no assignments or anything to keep you engaged."
Frequent reports of poor audio quality throughout.
"...although the quality of the audio is bad as it is stated by the other people too."
"The audio quality is very bad. Some reviews state that this improved in newer lectures, but the older ones still have very bad sound..."
"Unfortunately, the microphone quality is terrible and distracting in older lectures."
"The audio quality is atrocious and difficult to follow. Needs a serious technical overhaul."
"The audio quality is low, but the content is superb."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Islamic Architecture with these activities:
Review 'Architecture of the Islamic World: Its History and Social Meaning'
Gain a foundational understanding of Islamic architectural history and social context.
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Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Architecture of the Islamic World: Its History and Social Meaning'.
  • Read the book, focusing on key architectural styles and historical periods.
  • Take notes on important concepts and examples.
Compile a glossary of Islamic architectural terms
Familiarize yourself with the vocabulary of Islamic architecture.
Show steps
  • Identify key architectural terms used in the course materials.
  • Research the definitions and origins of each term.
  • Compile a glossary with definitions and illustrations.
Explore online resources on Islamic geometric patterns
Enhance your understanding of a key element of Islamic design through online tutorials.
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on creating Islamic geometric patterns.
  • Follow a tutorial to create a simple geometric pattern.
  • Experiment with different patterns and techniques.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Review 'Islamic Art and Architecture'
Deepen your understanding of Islamic art and architecture with a comprehensive reference book.
Show steps
  • Acquire a copy of 'Islamic Art and Architecture' by Robert Hillenbrand.
  • Read relevant chapters alongside course lectures.
  • Use the book as a reference for specific architectural styles or historical periods.
Create a visual timeline of Islamic architectural development
Reinforce your understanding of the chronological progression of Islamic architecture.
Show steps
  • Research key periods and styles in Islamic architectural history.
  • Gather images of representative buildings from each period.
  • Create a visual timeline using presentation software or online tools.
  • Add brief descriptions of each building and its significance.
Write a blog post on a specific example of Islamic architecture
Deepen your understanding of a specific building and share your knowledge with others.
Show steps
  • Choose a specific building that interests you.
  • Research the building's history, design, and significance.
  • Write a blog post that summarizes your findings and includes images.
Design a hypothetical Islamic cultural center
Apply your knowledge of Islamic architectural principles to a practical design project.
Show steps
  • Research the functions and requirements of a cultural center.
  • Develop a design concept that incorporates Islamic architectural elements.
  • Create sketches, diagrams, or a 3D model of your design.
  • Write a brief description of your design and its rationale.

Career center

Learners who complete Islamic Architecture will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Architectural Historian
The role of an Architectural Historian involves researching and documenting the history of buildings and structures, focusing on their design, construction, and cultural significance. The Islamic Architecture course, with its focus on the origins and development of Islamic architectural styles, could be invaluable for an Architectural Historian specializing in this area. This course helps build a foundation of knowledge in the history of Islamic structures across different regions and time periods, which is crucial for understanding their historical context and evolution over time. The emphasis on firsthand observation of architectural sites mirrors the work of a historian who often uses site visits to deepen their understanding.
Architectural Conservator
An Architectural Conservator works to preserve historic buildings, ensuring their structural integrity and cultural authenticity. A deep knowledge of Islamic architectural history, as provided by this Islamic Architecture course, is essential for a conservator working with Islamic structures. The course's tracing of the evolution of architectural styles and components helps build an excellent understanding of how different parts of a building relate to each other and allows conservators to create appropriate, culturally sensitive plans for preservation. The emphasis on visual learning and firsthand observation in the course might also be valuable in this hands-on field.
Museum curator
A Museum Curator is responsible for managing and interpreting collections of cultural artifacts, including those related to architecture. For a curator specializing in Islamic art and architecture, the detailed study of Islamic building styles offered in this Islamic Architecture course may be very useful. This course provides a framework for understanding how and where different architectural styles developed, useful in curating or interpreting a collection. The course’s commitment to first-hand, visual learning can enhance a curator's ability to connect with the subject matter.
Art historian
An Art Historian researches and writes about art, including architecture, within its historical, social, and cultural contexts. The study of Islamic Architecture in this course may be helpful to an Art Historian who specializes in Islamic art or architecture, providing a solid base of knowledge about the forms and their evolution. This course helps provide a deep understanding of the historical development of buildings and their components, which is essential for writing accurate and thought-provoking analyses. The course's approach to learning through visual material is in line with the work done by Art Historians.
Urban Planner
Urban Planners develop plans for communities and cities, considering design, transportation, and cultural aspects. This Islamic Architecture course may be particularly relevant for individuals working or planning in regions with significant Islamic architectural heritage. The course’s in-depth study of the origins and variations in Islamic architectural design can give the Urban Planner a greater cultural awareness when considering or preserving historical sites. This course could be useful in understanding the cultural landscape being planned, and may inform decisions about the built environment.
Architectural Designer
Architectural Designers create plans and designs for buildings, often working closely with engineers and clients. A course such as Islamic Architecture may be useful for an Architectural Designer who is interested in incorporating traditional Islamic styles in their work or who is working on a project in a region with Islamic heritage. The course helps build an understanding of the historical development of forms and components, which may inspire new interpretations. The course’s emphasis on visual and experiential learning would also be beneficial for a designer's education.
Cultural Heritage Manager
Cultural Heritage Managers oversee the preservation and management of heritage sites, which may include architectural sites. For a manager working with Islamic heritage, a course such as Islamic Architecture may be helpful. This course helps build an awareness of the origins and development of Islamic structures, providing critical background for preservation and conservation efforts. The course’s focus on firsthand analysis of the sites and the evolution of design may be useful in managing these sites.
Exhibition Designer
Exhibition Designers create the visual and spatial elements of museum or gallery exhibitions. An Exhibition Designer working on displays of Islamic art and history would find the study of Islamic Architecture offered in this course may be useful. The course aids in understanding the evolution of Islamic architectural styles, which helps inform the design of an engaging and educational exhibition. The course’s emphasis on visual learning is also valuable for designers, who work with visual elements in order to create engaging displays.
Interior designer
Interior Designers create functional and beautiful interior spaces. This Islamic Architecture course may be helpful for an Interior Designer who is interested in drawing inspiration from Islamic design elements or working on projects in regions with Islamic cultural heritage. The course helps build an understanding of the traditional forms and their evolution, which may inform the design of well-proportioned, harmonious spaces. The course’s emphasis on visual learning may also be useful.
Travel Writer
Travel Writers produce articles and content about travel destinations, often highlighting cultural and historical aspects. A Travel Writer who focuses on architecture or Islamic culture may find this course on Islamic Architecture to be valuable. The course helps provide an understanding of the origins and variations in Islamic building styles, enriching the writer’s ability to present detailed and informative pieces. The course’s approach of on-site learning may also help them in their travel and research.
Real Estate Developer
Real Estate Developers oversee the process of building construction and the development of land. A Real Estate Developer who works on projects that seek to incorporate traditional design in their work, particularly in Islamic regions, may find the Islamic Architecture course to be helpful. The course offers a foundation in the origins, development, and variations in Islamic styles, potentially informing design choices that are in keeping with local traditions. The course seeks to enrich experience and could provide fresh perspectives to a developer.
Teacher
Teachers educate students in various subjects. If a Teacher is focused on art history, cultural studies, or architectural history, this Islamic Architecture course may be useful. The course offers a deep understanding of the development of building styles and components. The course’s emphasis on visual learning and hands-on experience may also be valuable in teaching this subject, potentially enriching the learning experience for students. The course’s mission to improve education may also be helpful.
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architects design and plan outdoor spaces, frequently integrating cultural and historical considerations. This course on Islamic Architecture may be useful for a Landscape Architect who works in regions with Islamic heritage. The course could assist in understanding the interplay between architectural design and the landscape. The course seeks to enrich experience and may lead to landscape designs that are more culturally and contextually grounded. The course's emphasis on visual learning may also prove beneficial.
Construction Manager
Construction Managers oversee the planning and execution of construction projects. A Construction Manager who works on sites with historical Islamic structures may find that the Islamic Architecture course is useful. The course helps a manager understand the origins and development of building techniques. This may be useful when working on existing projects that require careful preservation and understanding of their history. The course's stated focus on site observation also may be beneficial.
Draftsperson
Draftspersons prepare technical drawings and plans for construction projects, often based on plans created by architects and designers. This Islamic Architecture course may be helpful to a Draftsperson working on projects in regions with Islamic heritage or who is working on a project that incorporates traditional design. The course helps build an understanding of traditional forms and how details are combined. The course seeks to enhance human development and may foster an appreciation for the art and history that is being drawn.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Islamic Architecture.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Islamic architecture across various regions and time periods. It delves into the historical context and social significance of different architectural styles and elements. Reading this book before the course will provide a solid foundation for understanding the course material. It valuable resource for gaining a broader perspective on the subject.
Offers a detailed exploration of Islamic art and architecture, covering a wide range of artistic expressions and architectural forms. It examines the cultural and religious influences that shaped Islamic art and architecture. This book serves as an excellent reference throughout the course, providing in-depth analysis and visual examples. It is commonly used as a textbook in academic settings.

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