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Javier Orozco-Messana,
Elena de la Poza-Plaza,
Dai Morgan,
Naoko Ellis,
Edmond Byrne,
Kas Hemmes,
and
María Valles-Planells
This course offers an interdisciplinary approach to sustainabilityin Architecture. Learners will be introducedto the basic elements of sustainability assessments (first model layer), as well as trends informing the space today.
The coursework enables students to develop a conceptual neighborhood model for assessing performance and urban policies.
Read more
This course offers an interdisciplinary approach to sustainabilityin Architecture. Learners will be introducedto the basic elements of sustainability assessments (first model layer), as well as trends informing the space today.
The coursework enables students to develop a conceptual neighborhood model for assessing performance and urban policies.
Read more
This course offers an interdisciplinary approach to sustainabilityin Architecture. Learners will be introducedto the basic elements of sustainability assessments (first model layer), as well as trends informing the space today.
The coursework enables students to develop a conceptual neighborhood model for assessing performance and urban policies.
In the first week,participants willlearn todevelop a conceptual model from the architectural elements of buildings; the basic building blockof which will be theperformance of materials. The second weekexploresmethods of optimizing performance. Coursework willdetail the needs and constraints inherent in selecting materials and neighborhood urban elements (the second model layer for green, blue and grey infrastructure).
In the third week, learners will developthe basic tools for introducing energy and measuring the potential impact on climate change (CO2). A new layer (third) on our neighborhood stainability model, this will be approached from a global perspective. In the fourth and finalweek, the course will explore techniques for a joint assessment directly connected to policy issues.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/yc32ra/sustainability
What's inside
Learning objectives
- How to evaluate the sustainability performance of buildings from materials
- Ways to assess energy use
- How to account for use of urban infrastructure
- How to create a neighborhoodmodel adequate for analysisand urban policy assessment
- How to evaluate the sustainability performance of buildings from materials
- Ways to assess energy use
- How to account for use of urban infrastructure
- How to create a neighborhoodmodel adequate for analysisand urban policy assessment
Syllabus
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines sustainability in architecture and its impact
Provides step-by-step methods for assessing sustainability, useful for students and professionals
Provides a good grounding in selecting materials and assessing their performance on sustainability
Focuses on a conceptual neighborhood model to analyze performance, relevant for designing sustainable neighborhoods
Taught by reputable instructors in architecture with experience in sustainability
Requires students to develop a conceptual neighborhood model, allowing them to apply knowledge
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Reviews summary
Sustainability in architecture: interdisciplinary overview
According to learners, this course provides a positive and broad introduction to sustainability in architecture. Students particularly appreciate the interdisciplinary approach, connecting materials, energy use, urban planning, and policy. The course covers key assessment elements and trends, offering a solid conceptual foundation. While many find it helpful for beginners or those needing an overview, some note that certain topics might require prior knowledge in related fields or could benefit from more in-depth coverage. The conceptual neighborhood model assignment is a practical application but can be challenging for some.
Hands-on model development is useful.
"Developing the conceptual neighborhood model was a valuable exercise for applying the concepts."
"The assignment helped solidify my understanding of the assessment layers."
"While challenging, the modeling task provided practical experience."
"The conceptual model was interesting, though implementing it required careful attention to detail."
Connects various fields effectively.
"The interdisciplinary approach is the course's biggest strength, linking architecture with environment and policy."
"Loved how it integrated different elements like materials, energy, and urban infrastructure."
"Seeing how these different areas connect in a sustainability context was very insightful."
Offers a good overview of the topic.
"Overall, this course provides a good introduction to sustainability in architecture..."
"It gives a very broad overview of the main concepts and how different aspects are interconnected."
"Excellent for someone looking for a general understanding before diving deeper into specific areas."
"I appreciated the scope of topics covered, from materials to policy issues."
Helpful to have prior knowledge.
"Having some basic knowledge in architecture, urban planning, or environmental science is definitely beneficial."
"Learners without a technical background might find some parts difficult."
"The course assumes a certain level of familiarity with related concepts."
Moves quickly; could use more depth.
"The course is quite fast-paced, especially if you're new to some of the concepts."
"Would have liked more detail on specific technical aspects or assessment methods."
"It's a good introduction, but don't expect deep dives into every topic mentioned."
"Some weeks felt packed with information, making it challenging to fully grasp everything before moving on."
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 Sustainability in Architecture: An Interdisciplinary Introduction with these
activities:
Solve practice questions on energy efficiency calculations
Show steps
Strengthen your understanding of energy efficiency principles and calculations through repeated practice.
Browse courses on
Energy Efficiency
Show steps
-
Identify the relevant formulas and concepts.
-
Solve practice questions of varying difficulty levels.
-
Review your answers and identify areas for improvement.
Develop a Presentation on Sustainable Building Materials
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of sustainable building materials and develop effective communication skills by creating a presentation.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
-
Research different types of sustainable building materials and their environmental benefits.
-
Create a presentation outline that covers the key points and evidence.
-
Design visually appealing slides and prepare a clear and engaging narrative.
Compile a digital library of sustainable architecture case studies
Show steps
Expand your knowledge and gain inspiration by gathering examples of real-world sustainable architecture projects.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
-
Research and identify notable sustainable architecture projects.
-
Collect relevant information, including project descriptions, images, and design strategies.
-
Organize the case studies in a digital library for easy reference.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Design a Low-Carbon Neighborhood Model
Show steps
Apply the principles of sustainability and performance-based design to create a model of a neighborhood that minimizes carbon footprint.
Browse courses on
Performance Assessment
Show steps
-
Identify the key design parameters and constraints.
-
Research and select appropriate sustainable materials and building systems.
-
Develop a neighborhood layout that optimizes energy efficiency and minimizes environmental impact.
-
Analyze the performance of the neighborhood model using simulation tools.
Review 'The Architecture of Green Cities'
Show steps
Gain foundational knowledge on sustainability and the elements of Green Cities as defined by renowned architect Ken Yeang.
Show steps
-
Read the book chapters that focus on sustainability and architectural elements.
-
Identify the key concepts and theories presented in each chapter.
-
Summarize the main points of each chapter in your own words.
Contribute to open-source projects related to sustainable architecture
Show steps
Apply your knowledge and skills to real-world projects while contributing to the broader sustainable architecture community.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
-
Identify open-source projects that align with your interests and skills.
-
Join the project community and explore ways to contribute.
-
Make meaningful contributions to the project, such as code development, documentation, or research.
Solve practice questions on energy efficiency calculations
Show steps
Strengthen your understanding of energy efficiency principles and calculations through repeated practice.
Browse courses on
Energy Efficiency
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the relevant formulas and concepts.
- Solve practice questions of varying difficulty levels.
- Review your answers and identify areas for improvement.
Develop a Presentation on Sustainable Building Materials
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of sustainable building materials and develop effective communication skills by creating a presentation.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different types of sustainable building materials and their environmental benefits.
- Create a presentation outline that covers the key points and evidence.
- Design visually appealing slides and prepare a clear and engaging narrative.
Compile a digital library of sustainable architecture case studies
Show steps
Expand your knowledge and gain inspiration by gathering examples of real-world sustainable architecture projects.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify notable sustainable architecture projects.
- Collect relevant information, including project descriptions, images, and design strategies.
- Organize the case studies in a digital library for easy reference.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Design a Low-Carbon Neighborhood Model
Show steps
Apply the principles of sustainability and performance-based design to create a model of a neighborhood that minimizes carbon footprint.
Browse courses on
Performance Assessment
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the key design parameters and constraints.
- Research and select appropriate sustainable materials and building systems.
- Develop a neighborhood layout that optimizes energy efficiency and minimizes environmental impact.
- Analyze the performance of the neighborhood model using simulation tools.
Review 'The Architecture of Green Cities'
Show steps
Gain foundational knowledge on sustainability and the elements of Green Cities as defined by renowned architect Ken Yeang.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book chapters that focus on sustainability and architectural elements.
- Identify the key concepts and theories presented in each chapter.
- Summarize the main points of each chapter in your own words.
Contribute to open-source projects related to sustainable architecture
Show steps
Apply your knowledge and skills to real-world projects while contributing to the broader sustainable architecture community.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify open-source projects that align with your interests and skills.
- Join the project community and explore ways to contribute.
- Make meaningful contributions to the project, such as code development, documentation, or research.
Career center
Learners who complete Sustainability in Architecture: An Interdisciplinary Introduction will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Architect
Architect
Architects plan and design buildings and other structures. They must consider the sustainability of their designs, including the materials used, the energy efficiency of the building, and the impact on the environment. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help architects make more informed decisions about their designs.
Architectural Drafter
Architectural Drafter
Architectural drafters create technical drawings and plans for buildings and other structures. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to create designs that are energy efficient and environmentally friendly. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help architectural drafters create more sustainable designs.
Building Inspector
Building Inspector
Building inspectors ensure that buildings comply with building codes and regulations. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to ensure that buildings are energy efficient and environmentally friendly. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help building inspectors make more informed decisions about the buildings they inspect.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil engineers design and build infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and water systems. They must consider the sustainability of their designs, including the materials used, the energy efficiency of the project, and the impact on the environment. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help civil engineers make more informed decisions about their designs.
Construction Manager
Construction Manager
Construction managers oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to ensure that projects are built in a sustainable manner. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help construction managers make more informed decisions about the projects they manage.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to develop solutions that are environmentally friendly. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help environmental engineers develop more sustainable solutions.
Green Building Consultant
Green Building Consultant
Green building consultants advise clients on how to make their buildings more sustainable. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in architecture in order to provide sound advice. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help green building consultants provide more informed advice to their clients.
Interior designer
Interior designer
Interior designers plan and design the interiors of buildings. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to create designs that are energy efficient and environmentally friendly. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help interior designers create more sustainable designs.
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architect
Landscape architects design and plan outdoor spaces. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to create designs that are environmentally friendly and promote biodiversity. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help landscape architects create more sustainable designs.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers design and build mechanical systems, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to design systems that are energy efficient and environmentally friendly. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help mechanical engineers design more sustainable systems.
Planner
Planner
Planners develop plans for the use of land and resources. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to develop plans that promote sustainable development. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help planners develop more sustainable plans.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project managers oversee the planning and execution of projects. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to ensure that projects are completed in a sustainable manner. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help project managers make more informed decisions about the projects they manage.
Real Estate Agent
Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents help people buy and sell property. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to advise their clients on the sustainability of different properties. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help real estate agents provide more informed advice to their clients.
Sustainability Analyst
Sustainability Analyst
Sustainability analysts evaluate the sustainability of organizations and products. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to make informed recommendations. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help sustainability analysts make more informed recommendations about the sustainability of buildings and other structures.
Urban Designer
Urban Designer
Urban designers plan and design cities and towns. They must be familiar with the principles of sustainability in order to create designs that promote sustainable development. This course provides an overview of sustainability in architecture, which can help urban designers create more sustainable designs.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/yc32ra/sustainability
Reading list
We've selected seven 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
Sustainability in Architecture: An Interdisciplinary Introduction.
Widely used resource for selecting and applying green building materials. It is particularly useful in the course's first week and as a reference tool.
It is an excellent reference for methods and metrics for building performance analysis. It provides technical details that can enhance the course's second and third weeks' learning.
With a global perspective, this book presents a broad overview of sustainable architecture. It serves as a great introductory text to the course's first and second weeks' topics.
Takes a business perspective on green building concepts, relevant to the course's fourth week topic. It adds depth and practical insights to the coursework.
It textbook that offers a comprehensive overview of integrated sustainable building design principles and practices. It serves as a good supplemental resource for the entire course.
Provides comprehensive information on sustainable site materials, offering insights into the course's first week topic. It is particularly useful as a reference tool.
Discusses sustainable urban regeneration and various case studies. It can add depth to the course's fourth week and serve as a reference for practical examples.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/yc32ra/sustainability
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Rating
3.8
Effort
3 to 4 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Via
edX
Institution
Universitat Politècnica de València
Instructors
Javier Orozco-Messana
Elena de la Poza-Plaza
Dai Morgan
Naoko Ellis
Edmond Byrne
Kas Hemmes
María Valles-Planells
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Interdisciplinary Sustainable Architecture Assessment. It's comprised of two courses:
- Sustainability in Architecture: An Interdisciplinary Introduction (viewing)
- Built environment sustainability assessment
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