2011 Landscape Architecture 535 - USC School of Architecture

University of Southern California School of Architecture
Materials and Methods for Landscape Architecture: LIVING SYSTEMS
7. You may submit up to four extra notebook assignments before the last day of class for extra credit.
A case study that includes interesting information from an interview with an expert or project
manager associated with the study will be worth double (or count for a single assignment, if done to
improve an assignment already turned in). Interview transcripts (if be email) or notes should be
included.
8. At the end of the class I will make a selection of notebook assignments to be published in an online
publication. During the semester, please compose all of your notebook assignments in a single
inDesign file and be prepared to upload this with all links “embedded” or collected in a folder before
the end of the semester. You may be required to fix formatting issues on projects that will are
included in the class publication.
9. Also, a
Readings & Class Discussion
It is important that students become versed in existing literature on the subject. Prior to class meetings
all students are required to compose at least one question and briefly explain why they are asking this
particular question for each reading “section”. Additionally there will be up to two class discussion
leaders who will be expected to provide (split between leaders) reading summaries and lead class
discussion. Readings, not in the recommended text to purchase, will be provided to students (all
readings for the first week will be provided).
Questions must be posted in the DISCUSSIONS section of blackboard on Monday by 5PM. Late
submissions will be severely penalized. This is to allow the discussion leaders to review the class
materials prior to discussion. Bring printed copies to class. See blackboard under DISCUSSIONS for
more information.
Reading summaries by the discussion leader are due in class and should be posted to the
DISCUSSIONS folder after class.
Final Project
Instead of a final exam the final project will entail re-organizing your final presentation into a board that
summarizes your findings and is a good resource for your subject. Boards will be printed and submitted
in PDF format. A standard titleblock will be provided and these boards will be shared with the rest of the
class. The final project is due Tuesday May 10th at 10AM (at the time scheduled for the final).
Quizzes
You will be asked to demonstrate your understanding of the lectures, readings, and site visits. They will
also test your understanding of particular terminology presented in class and of systems described in
class and in field trips.
Office Hours
Wednesdays 10-11AM. Please email me ahead of time to reserve a time. I will not always be there unless
someone makes a reservation.
Grading
Grading is based on the following: Each of two quizzes, 5%; Presentations, 15%; Assignments, 55%;
Final Project 10%; and participation, 10% (Readings and Discussion).
Class Schedule (Subject to Change based on field trip scheduling)
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