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Federico von Borstel

Welcome to this course on Maya Architecture, Design and Civilization. This course takes you inside the world of this mysterious civilization that flourished in the jungles of Southern Mexico and Central America. It is a journey of exploration guided by an insider. Everything that we share in this course has been studied, visited and documented directly by your professor. At the end of this course you will have a unique appreciation and valuable insight into the relationship of the Architecture, the Design and the Civilization of this unique, advanced, mysterious and exquisite culture. 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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Welcome to this course on Maya Architecture, Design and Civilization. This course takes you inside the world of this mysterious civilization that flourished in the jungles of Southern Mexico and Central America. It is a journey of exploration guided by an insider. Everything that we share in this course has been studied, visited and documented directly by your professor. At the end of this course you will have a unique appreciation and valuable insight into the relationship of the Architecture, the Design and the Civilization of this unique, advanced, mysterious and exquisite culture. 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

  • Students who take this course will acquire and in-depth knowledge and appreciation of maya architecture, design and civilization.
  • The course seeks to enrich your life experience.
  • The course promotes self-learning.
  • The course enhances human development.

Syllabus

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

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Offers an insider's perspective, drawing from the professor's direct study, visits, and documentation of Maya civilization sites
Explores the intricate relationship between architecture, design, and civilization within the Maya culture, providing valuable insights
Presents graphic material taken or generated firsthand on site, offering a unique visual experience of Maya architecture and design
Seeks to enrich life experience and promote self-learning, aligning with personal growth and development

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Reviews summary

Deep dive into maya civilization via architecture

According to learners, this course offers a deep and unique exploration of Maya Architecture, Design, and Civilization. Many highlight the professor's extensive knowledge and passion, often citing the first-hand photographic material and personal insights as major strengths. Students appreciate the in-depth coverage, though some note that the lecture-heavy format and dense information can make the course challenging at times. A few mention the lack of traditional assessments like quizzes or assignments, which might be a different learning experience than expected for some, but others find the material itself highly engaging and inspiring.
Primarily focuses on lectures, less interaction.
"Very in-depth look at Maya architecture. The lectures are dense with information..."
"Interesting material, but the teaching style is very lecture-heavy. Would have benefited from quizzes or assignments to check understanding."
"The focus is heavily on lectures, which requires focused attention throughout."
"It felt more like a university lecture series without the interactive elements I sometimes expect from online courses."
Offers a detailed and comprehensive look.
"Very in-depth look at Maya architecture. The lectures are dense with information, perhaps too much for a casual learner, but rewarding if you stick with it."
"Fantastic content, the level of detail is amazing. A deep dive into the subject."
"Provides a comprehensive overview of Maya architecture, design, and civilization."
"I learned so much about the subject; the course goes into significant detail on various aspects."
Course includes unique first-hand photographs.
"His first-hand photos and knowledge are unparalleled. Truly a unique and inspiring course."
"The use of first-hand photographic material makes this course stand out and brings the architecture to life."
"Seeing the sites through the professor's own documentation was incredibly valuable and engaging."
"I particularly enjoyed the extensive collection of images the professor shared, many of which were his own."
Instructor's deep knowledge and passion praised.
"The professor's passion for the subject is contagious! His first-hand photos and knowledge are unparalleled. Truly a unique and inspiring course."
"Professor is clearly an expert in the field, with incredible depth of knowledge and a unique perspective."
"His connection to the material and expertise shine through every lecture. You can tell he has spent years studying and visiting these sites."
"I really appreciated the instructor's personal experiences and extensive research shared throughout the lectures."
No quizzes, exams, or homework noted.
"Would have benefited from quizzes or assignments to check understanding."
"There were no exercises to help reinforce learning."
"I found it challenging without any checkpoints like quizzes or assignments to gauge my comprehension."
"The course consists entirely of lectures, without any tests or homework."

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 Maya Architecture, Design and Civilization with these activities:
The Ancient Maya
Provide a comprehensive overview of Maya civilization, covering its history, culture, and architecture.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Ancient Maya'.
  • Read the introductory chapters.
  • Take notes on key concepts.
Review Mesoamerican History
Refresh your knowledge of the broader historical context in which the Maya civilization arose.
Show steps
  • Review online resources on Mesoamerica.
  • Focus on timelines and key events.
  • Take a short online quiz.
Create a Maya Architecture Blog
Solidify your understanding of Maya architecture by creating a blog documenting your learning journey.
Show steps
  • Choose a blogging platform.
  • Write weekly posts on course topics.
  • Include images and diagrams.
  • Share your blog online.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
3D Model of a Maya Structure
Deepen your understanding of Maya architectural design by creating a 3D model of a significant structure.
Show steps
  • Select a Maya structure to model.
  • Gather reference images and plans.
  • Use 3D modeling software to create the model.
  • Present your model with annotations.
A Forest of Kings: The Untold Story of the Ancient Maya
Gain a deeper understanding of Maya political history and the roles of individual rulers.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'A Forest of Kings'.
  • Read the chapters focusing on specific rulers.
  • Relate the political events to architectural developments.
Maya Architecture Resource Guide
Compile a resource guide of websites, articles, and books related to Maya architecture for future reference.
Show steps
  • Search for relevant online resources.
  • Categorize the resources by topic.
  • Write a brief summary of each resource.
  • Share your guide with classmates.
Tutor other students
Reinforce your understanding by helping other students who are struggling with the material.
Show steps
  • Offer to tutor classmates.
  • Prepare explanations of key concepts.
  • Answer questions and provide feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Maya Architecture, Design and Civilization will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Archaeologist
An archaeologist studies past peoples and cultures by excavating and analyzing material remains, including architecture and artifacts. This course offers a deep dive into Maya architecture, design, and civilization, providing a foundational understanding of a significant historical culture. This firsthand perspective, gained through the professor's direct study, visits, and documentation of Maya sites, enhances the capacity of an archaeologist to interpret the physical remains of this particular culture. An aspiring archaeologist who takes this course can gain valuable insight, potentially leading to opportunities for research or fieldwork on Maya civilization. This course provides a lens into the relationship between architecture, design, and civilization, and will be of value to anyone wishing to enter this field.
Architectural Historian
An architectural historian researches and documents the history of building design and construction. This course, focusing on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, provides a rich understanding of a specific historical architectural style. The course's firsthand documentation will help an architectural historian develop a more nuanced and informed view of Maya structures. An architectural historian will find the professor's insights particularly useful in evaluating the relationship between architecture and the culture that created it. This course offers a significant advantage to someone wishing to enter the field of architectural history, especially with an interest in pre-Columbian architecture.
Museum curator
A museum curator is responsible for the care and interpretation of a museum's collection. This course, with its specific focus on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, helps develop expertise in a specific culture that may be represented in a museum's holdings. The firsthand experience of the professor, in documenting Maya sites, allows a museum curator to speak authoritatively about related artifacts and displays. A curator can use this deep knowledge to create more engaging exhibitions for the public. The course is particularly helpful for a future museum curator who expects to work with collections related to Central American cultures. The detailed study of the course provides valuable preparation for a career in museum curatorship.
Cultural Heritage Manager
A cultural heritage manager works to preserve and manage historical sites and cultural properties. This course on Maya architecture, design, and civilization helps develop a deep understanding of the cultural significance of these sites. The course's emphasis on the relationship of architecture to society provides valuable information to those working to preserve and interpret this cultural heritage. A cultural heritage manager can benefit from the first hand documentation and insights offered by the professor, leading to a better appreciation of the complexities of the Maya world. This course offers a unique perspective that may be highly beneficial for those entering this field, especially those planning to work in the southern Mexico and Central America region.
Art conservator
An art conservator is a professional who assesses the condition of artwork and artifacts. An art conservator uses specialized knowledge and skills to repair and protect cultural and artistic items. The in-depth knowledge of Maya architecture, design, and civilization helps an art conservator gain valuable insights into the materials and techniques used in Maya art and architecture. The course's content is particularly valuable for an art conservator whose work involves pre-Columbian artifacts. This course, with its detail about the design and construction of Maya artifacts, may be valuable to a future art conservator working or specializing in this field.
Exhibit Designer
An exhibit designer plans and creates engaging and informative exhibits for museums and cultural institutions. This course, with its focus on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, may be valuable in creating exhibits related to this culture. An exhibit designer can use the detailed information about the relationship between architecture and civilization to create immersive exhibits. The firsthand knowledge of the instructor, in studying the Mayan world and its artifacts, would be particularly helpful for designing exhibits that accurately represent the Mayan people to the public. This course may be useful to anyone who wishes to enter this field of exhibit design.
History Educator
A history educator teaches others about the past, often in schools or universities. This course provides a detailed perspective on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, potentially making a history educator more knowledgeable about this subject. The course offers unique insights into the Maya culture, which may help an educator develop engaging lessons. For a history educator, studying this course provides a deep understanding of an ancient civilization that might not be readily available in other resources. This course can definitely benefit an educator preparing to teach about Central American history, or pre-Columbian civilizations.
Research Assistant
A research assistant supports research projects by collecting data, conducting interviews, and analyzing findings. This course, centered on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, may help develop a research assistant's expertise in this area. The detailed study of the Maya culture that this course provides could be valuable for a project on ancient civilizations. A research assistant can use the historical knowledge gained in this course to support scholars in related fields. This detailed course offers a good background for a research assistant who wishes to work in the field of pre-Columbian history or civilization.
Materials Scientist
A materials scientist studies the properties of different materials and how they can be used in various applications. While this course focuses on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, it may provide insights into the materials and construction techniques used by the Maya people. A materials scientist may find this information useful for understanding historic building materials. The course could be useful to a materials scientist interested in historical construction. The perspective provided by this course may be valuable to those in this field.
Cultural Anthropologist
A cultural anthropologist studies human societies and cultures, including their traditions, beliefs, and social structures. This course, focused on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, introduces an in-depth analysis of one particular culture. It helps a cultural anthropologist gain deeper knowledge of how Maya society expressed itself through architecture and design. The course material may form the foundation for future anthropological research or studies. A cultural anthropologist will find this course of particular value if he or she hopes to specialize in the archeology or anthropology of the Central American region.
Urban Planner
An urban planner works to develop and manage the growth of cities and communities. While this course focuses on historic Maya architecture, design, and civilization, it may provide a different perspective on the development of human settlements. An urban planner may benefit from studying how ancient societies organized their spaces and structures. Though not directly applicable to modern urban planning challenges, this course may offer insight that a student could apply to their work on urban development. This course may be helpful in showing how urban planning has been done in the past.
Graphic Designer
A graphic designer creates visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. This course focuses on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, and it can familiarize a graphic designer with the design principles of an ancient civilization. A graphic designer might find inspiration in the patterns and styles of Maya art, architecture, and design. This course may offer a fresh perspective on design elements for a graphic designer interested in exploring different cultures and styles. This course could be useful to someone who wishes to find fresh patterns and ideas.
Journalist
A journalist gathers information and produces reports for media outlets. This course, focused on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, may not directly relate to a typical assignment. However, a journalist interested in travel or history might find this course helpful for developing stories about ancient cultures. A journalist can use the insights gained in the course to produce a piece about Mayan art, architecture, or their broader civilization. This deep dive into the Maya world can be helpful for a journalist who seeks to cover these topics with detail and accuracy. This course may prove useful to a journalist with an interest in archaeology or cultural reporting.
Librarian
A librarian manages and organizes information resources for a community or institution. This course on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, may not seem directly applicable, but a librarian specializing in history or archeology may find this information useful for collection development. A librarian may find the course helpful in recommending resources or assisting researchers in this area. The detailed information and perspective offered by this course may be valuable for librarians who manage collections of historical or anthropological significance. This course may benefit librarians who wish to specialize in a particular area of history.
Software Developer
A software developer designs and creates computer applications. This course, centered on Maya architecture, design, and civilization, does not have a direct connection to software development. However, the course may enhance critical thinking and creative problem solving. In this way, this course may contribute to a software developer's ability to approach problems with different perspectives. The detailed approach to learning, as demonstrated in the course, may also improve a software developer's analytical skills. This course may be useful, but the connection is not direct, or immediate.

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 Maya Architecture, Design and Civilization.
Comprehensive overview of Maya civilization, covering its history, culture, and architecture. It provides a strong foundation for understanding the course material. It is commonly used as a textbook in academic institutions. Reading this book before the course begins will give you a significant advantage.

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