Independent Study: Becoming an Architect (C&S, 2 ECTS)
Independent Study: Becoming an Architect (C&S, 2 ECTS)
Study Programmes
Master's degree programme in Architecture
Course
Project Description
This optional module allows for various kinds of research studies. It is closely connected to the five units of the Liechtenstein School of Architecture and is usually part of ongoing research projects. The supervision consists of directing the students towards clear results within a given field of research. The individual study is reviewed within the respective unit.
This course invites students to critically reflect on their own academic development throughout their architectural education. By documenting personal experiences, milestones, challenges, and achievements, students create an individual narrative of their learning journey while identifying the factors that have shaped their professional growth. Through self-analysis, reflective writing, and interviews with fellow students, participants compare different educational paths, identify common patterns and individual differences, and evaluate personal strengths and areas for improvement. Attention is given to the relationship between architectural education and hands-on craftsmanship, examining how practical experience contributes to design thinking, technical understanding, and professional identity. The focus is set deliberately, as the course is part of the Walz 4.0 Interreg project, where students and apprentices in the skilled trades are specifically prepared for collaborative work processes already during their training. This approach underscores that cooperation, and the integration of diverse skills are crucial to success not only in theory but also in practice—in design offices, wood construction firms, and on the job site. Overall, the course encourages students to question existing educational structures, reflect on the integration of theory and practice, and formulate ideas for strengthening the connection between academic learning and craftsmanship in architectural education. The outcome is defined by an academic research paper, including several interviews.
This course invites students to critically reflect on their own academic development throughout their architectural education. By documenting personal experiences, milestones, challenges, and achievements, students create an individual narrative of their learning journey while identifying the factors that have shaped their professional growth. Through self-analysis, reflective writing, and interviews with fellow students, participants compare different educational paths, identify common patterns and individual differences, and evaluate personal strengths and areas for improvement. Attention is given to the relationship between architectural education and hands-on craftsmanship, examining how practical experience contributes to design thinking, technical understanding, and professional identity. The focus is set deliberately, as the course is part of the Walz 4.0 Interreg project, where students and apprentices in the skilled trades are specifically prepared for collaborative work processes already during their training. This approach underscores that cooperation, and the integration of diverse skills are crucial to success not only in theory but also in practice—in design offices, wood construction firms, and on the job site. Overall, the course encourages students to question existing educational structures, reflect on the integration of theory and practice, and formulate ideas for strengthening the connection between academic learning and craftsmanship in architectural education. The outcome is defined by an academic research paper, including several interviews.
Learning Objectives
After successful completion of the course, students will be able to
Learning Outcomes
The students...
Requirements (formal)
None.
It is recommended to complete this course in the third semester. The prerequisite for admission is a subject registration and the approval of the responsible unit.
It is recommended to complete this course in the third semester. The prerequisite for admission is a subject registration and the approval of the responsible unit.
Requirements
Registration via the intranet of the University of Liechtenstein is not binding and is only valid in combination with the written consent of the respective unit. This applies to all Individual Electives in the Master's degree programme in Architecture.
Assessment Methods
Minimum 75% compulsory attendance, regular meetings with instructors, continuous assessment, portfolio and final review.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following components: submission (40%) and presentation/participation (60%).
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following components: submission (40%) and presentation/participation (60%).
Grade
Individual appointments will be set with the tutor.