Case Studies in City Form, Fall 2005

Abstract:: Introduction to urban form and design, focusing on the physical, historical, and social form of cities. Selected cities are analyzed, drawn, and compared, to develop a working understanding of urban and architectural form. The development of map making and urban representation is discussed, and use of the computer is required. Special focus on the historical development of the selected cities, especially mid-nineteenth and mid-twentieth century periods of expansion. Readings on urban design theory in the twentieth century and a weekly discussion/seminar on them. Methods class for S.M.Arch.S. students in Architecture and Urbanism.

Environmental Engineering Applications of Geographic Information Systems, Fall 2004

Abstract:: This graduate seminar is taught in a lecture and lab exercise format. The subject matter is tailored to introduce Environmental Engineering students to the use and potential of Geographic Information Systems in their discipline. Lectures will cover the general concepts of GIS use and introduce the material in the exercises, and exercises will introduce students to the practical application of GIS.

Read the Fine Print

Abstract:: Each two-week module in the Study of Place curriculum is framed by an historical event that makes a connection between the physical environment and human activity. The activities focus primarily on physical and earth science content, geography, and inquiry skills. Assessments and scoring rubrics, including a pre-assessment that can be used for both modules, are embedded in each module, providing opportunities for tracking student learning. The Antarctic Exploration module is framed by Sir Ernest Shackelton's expedition to Antarctica. It explores the relationship between the expanse of sea ice and seasonal change. Students: * examine satellite images of Antarctica, comparing and contrasting the information provided by the various types of technology; * explore seasonal changes in the expanse of sea ice and learn about the Sun's seasonal effect on the concentration of energy on Earth's surface; * explore the differences between fresh and salt water and salinity levels in the Antarctic Ocean; * study the effect of albedo and insulation on sea ice and heat transfer and apply these concepts to a discussion of global climate change.

Read the Fine Print

Abstract:: Each two-week module in the Study of Place curriculum is framed by an historical event that makes a connection between the physical environment and human activity. The activities focus primarily on physical and earth science content, geography, and inquiry skills. Assessments and scoring rubrics, including a pre-assessment that can be used for both modules, are embedded in each module, providing opportunities for tracking student learning. The Ocean Currents Exploration module is framed by Benjamin Franklin's quest to explain why English ships carrying mail to the American colonies took two weeks longer to cross the Atlantic than colonial merchant ships making a similar voyage. It explores the mysterious force in the ocean called the Gulf Stream. Students: * use images of the Gulf Stream to explore seasonal changes in temperature, wind direction, and wave height; * investigate density-driven ocean currents and consider whether global climate change might affect deep currents; * learn about wind-driven currents by plotting the location of sneakers from a ship's container spill, and model the movement of gyres; * investigate how sand and water store and transfer heat energy and read about the possible climatic implications of a warmer ocean.