Enrollment in the Graduate Diploma in Architecture program or referral from the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) for individuals with a professional degree in architecture from a university outside Canada.
For those students interested in pursuing a career as a registered architect, this course contributes to the RAIC Syllabus Diploma.
Credit may be transferred for previous work considered equivalent.
Overview
Architecture 526: Architectural Design – Acoustics is intended for students in the Graduate Diploma in Architecture program or for those international architecture graduates referred by the CACB. This course examines both the theoretical and practical aspects of architectural practice in Canada, with a focus on acoustic theory and practice as it pertains to architecture and design. You will explore the physics and perception of sound, the characteristics of sound and vibration in spaces, and their place in the development of holistic design concepts. Qualitative and quantitative methods in acoustic analysis are presented and discussed. You will apply acoustic design criteria, methods, and materials to spaces for various activities and functions, from theatres and concert halls to open-space offices and hospitals. You will also examine issues of acoustic privacy and confidentiality and of sound reinforcement.
Outline
Part 1: Acoustics in Architectural Design, the Physics of Sound, and Physiology of Perceiving Sound and Vibration
Unit 1: Physics of the Sound and Vibration
Unit 2: Physiology of Hearing and Sensing Vibration
Unit 3: Functions of Acoustics Design
Part 2: Principles and Characteristics of Sound Waves in Spaces and Designing Spaces to Meet Acoustic Requirements
Unit 4: Characteristics of Sound Waves in Spaces
Unit 5: Designing Spaces for Effective Listening
Unit 6: Designing Spaces for Sound Isolation, Privacy, and Confidentiality
Part 3: Noise and Vibration Control in Buildings
Unit 7: Noise Control in Buildings Including Mechanical System Noise
Unit 8: Principles and Applications of Building Systems Vibration Control
Part 4: Sound Reinforcement Systems
Unit 9: Public Address and Electronic Sound Amplification Systems, Telecommunications Systems, Converging Technologies, and Acoustic Considerations
Learning outcomes
After completing this course, you should be able to
describe the physical, physiological, and psychological principles of auditory perception.
describe the physics of sound waves in general and the characteristics of the sound waves in a variety of spatial design configurations.
describe the characteristics of spaces designed for effective listening, working, learning, and other functions.
describe environmental acoustics in terms of acoustic enhancement and environmental noise control.
identify and describe acoustic separation systems for the design and construction of a given case study.
relate the scientific principles of acoustic design to the design and construction of comfortable spaces.
Evaluation
To receive credit for ARCH 526, you must achieve a cumulative grade of at least 67%. Your work in this course will be evaluated based on five assignments. Assignments 1, 2, and 3 (worth 20% each) consist of problems and questions drawn from the units. Assignment 4 is a case study and is worth 15% of the total course mark. Assignment 5 will cover the entire course and is worth 25% of your final grade. Your instructor will grade the assignments.
The weighting of the cumulative grade is as follows:
Activity
Weight
Assignment 1
20%
Assignment 2
20%
Assignment 3
20%
Assignment 4
15%
Assignment 5
25%
Total
100%
Materials
Egan, M. D. (2007). Architectural acoustics. Ross. (eBook)
Athabasca University reserves the right to amend course outlines occasionally and without notice. Courses offered by other delivery methods may vary from their individualized study counterparts.