Outline

Overview

This elective unit provides opportunities for undergraduate students to learn creative processes by ‘doing’, and to ‘think’ through making. Working with creative practitioners in studio settings, students will select and explore a broad range of traditional and experimental techniques including clay modelling and casting with small-scale constructions in rotating 2 x 6-week-long blocks. Engaging with hands-on processes of making, the unit aims to extend students’ creative proficiency, expand their material and formal appreciation of objects, and develop and refine their knowledge and skills to produce spatial creations. Students will design, plan, and produce a series of inquisitive three-dimensional objects utilising media explored in class, while rigorously investigating their potential aesthetic and conceptual applications.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Architecture
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	AWSS2010
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Koji Ryui, koji.ryui@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Presentation	Module 2 project in-class 5 mins presentation of the project outcome (object max 30x30x30cm) with 150 word statement + documentation images	30%	Formal exam period Due date: 09 Jun 2026 at 09:00	PDF+max 30x30x30cm+150 words+5mins	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Creative work	Module 2 journal Process journal with independent research	20%	Formal exam period Due date: 12 Jun 2026 at 23:59	minimum 20 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	In-class demonstration Progress of in-class tasks and research #earlyfeedbacktask	0%	Week 03 Due date: 10 Mar 2026 at 10:00 Closing date: 10 Mar 2026	2hrs	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Module 1 project in-class 5 mins presentation of the project outcome (object max 30x30x30cm) with 150 word statement + documentation images	30%	Week 09 Due date: 28 Apr 2026 at 09:00	PDF+max 30x30x30cm+150 words+5mins	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Creative work	Module 1 journal Process journal with independent research	20%	Week 09 Due date: 01 May 2026 at 23:59	minimum 20 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Attendance: Students should be present and engaged in their learning during classes. Late arrival/early departure will be deemed as an absence. Please refer to the Resolutions of the University School: University of Sydney School of Architecture Design and Planning Faculty Resolutions 2022 — Clause 8 (3) (a). Students are expected to attend a minimum of 90% of timetabled activities for each unit of study, unless granted exemption.

Production and presentation of project work for each rotating module accompanied by Process journal

Ceramic Module

Student will produce an object (max 30x30x30 cm) applying at least 1 technique taught in class. The object can be a model of a public sculpture or a pavilion (shelter / resting place) with clear material-lead conceptual query supported by a portfolio of works produced in class exploring introduced techniques and concepts. To be presented in class with 150 word statement articulating the concept aligned with the creative process. In prior to the presentation, student submit documentation images saved as PDF.

Casting Module

Student will produce a sculptural pedestal (max 30x30x30cm) for a found leaf applying at least 1 technique taught in class. The pedestal needs to incorporate one leaf of students choice. Design / form of the pedestal needs to respond to the leaf’s formal and material qualities. The botanical knowledge and the history of the leaf will also enhance and strengthen the design. Student’s need to approach making with clear material-lead conceptual query. To be presented in class with 150 word statement articulating the concept aligned with the creative process. In prior to the presentation, student submit documentation images saved as PDF.

Process Journal (for each module)

The journal should be utilised as a site to test, record, explore and experiment. It should contain drawings and images to illustrate students weekly processes and progress of their creative works at different stages with notes from each class. It demonstrating students a critical process of thinking and visualizing, outlining the development of students ideas through written reflection and research, with analytical self-evaluation of their works.

Detailed information for each assessment is made available on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Work of outstanding quality, demonstrating mastery of the learning outcomes assessed. The work shows significant innovation, experimentation, critical analysis, synthesis, insight, creativity, and/or exceptional skill.
Distinction	75 - 84	Work of excellent quality, demonstrating a sound grasp of the learning outcomes assessed. The work shows innovation, experimentation, critical analysis, synthesis, insight, creativity, and/or superior skill.
Credit	65 - 74	Work of good quality, demonstrating more than satisfactory achievement of the learning outcomes assessed, or work of excellent quality for a majority of the learning outcomes assessed.
Pass	50 - 64	Work demonstrating satisfactory achievement of the learning outcomes assessed.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

In accordance with University of Sydney School of Architecture Design and Planning Faculty Resolutions 2022, for every calendar day up to and including 10 calendar days after the due date, a penalty of 5% of the maximum awardable marks will be applied to the late work. For work submitted more than 10 calendar days after the due date, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Formal exam period	Module 2 project presentations	Tutorial (1 hr)
Formal exam period	Module 2 project presentations	Practical (2 hr)
Week 01	Module 1 introduction	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 01	Module 1 introduction	Practical (2 hr)
Week 02	Module 1 exercises	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 02	Module 1 exercises	Practical (2 hr)
Week 03	Module 1 exercises	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 03	Module 1 exercises	Practical (2 hr)
Week 04	Module 1 project development	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 04	Module 1 project development	Practical (2 hr)
Week 05	Module 1 project development	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 05	Module 1 project development	Practical (2 hr)
Week 06	Module 2 introduction	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 06	Module 2 introduction	Practical (2 hr)
Week 07	Module 2 exercises	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 07	Module 2 exercises	Practical (2 hr)
Week 08	Module 2 exercises	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 08	Module 2 exercises	Practical (2 hr)
Week 09	Module 2 project presentations	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 09	Module 2 project presentations	Practical (2 hr)
Week 10	Module 2 project development	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 10	Module 2 project development	Practical (2 hr)
Week 11	Module 2 project development	Practical (2 hr)
Week 11	Module 2 project development	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 12	Module 2 project final development in Lab	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 12	Module 2 project final development in Lab	Practical (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance and Study Commitment:

Students should note that participation to all classes is essential. Please arrive on time and participate in the full class session.

Please refer to the Resolutions of the University School: University of Sydney School of Architecture Design and Planning Faculty Resolutions 2022 — Clause 8 (3) (a). Students are expected to attend a minimum of 90% of timetabled activities for each unit of study, unless granted exemption.

Contact Hours: 3 hours per week
Independent Study: In addition to 3 contact hours per week, students are expected to spend 3-8 hours per week on independent study for this unit.
Absence: If you are absent from a class it is important that you do the work missed in class in your own time and submit the work for assessment at the specified time.

Required materials: Pencil, pen, Stanley knife, 30cm ruler, scissors, and bring your visual journal to every class.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

All weekly readings and additional material will be made available on Canvas.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Development and demonstration of skills to produce well-considered three dimensional forms applying hands on ‘making’ techniques
LO2. Ability to explore and experiment through material-lead processes of making, while generating designs through research, drawing and testing with iterations
LO3. Think openly, creatively, and critically adopting new ideas and processes exploring the field of contemporary three dimensional creative practices; visual arts, sculpture, spatial practices, design, in relation to architecture
LO4. Ability to professionally execute and present a through selection of works to demonstrate the understanding of required processes
LO5. Ability to appropriately select and integrate a range of primary and secondary research sources to develop your own thinking and making practice contextualised through a historic, philosophical, social, ethical or cultural frameworks
LO6. Ability to document and communicate own creative processes visually and verbally to demonstrate, critically reflect, negotiate and refine idea

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

The unit is now delivered for a larger cohort and we expect students to present more diverse creative experiences and expectations. While 2025 USS indicated that the unit and the techniques were useful, the unit content is updated on ongoing basis responding to learners' emerging needs and to introduce new ideas.

Additional information

No class in week 13 & final presentations in week 15 to minimise assessment clashes and allow extra time to complete the assignment.

The unit may be adjusted for each session. Please refer to information and materials provided on Canvas for any changes and updates.

Additional costs

Students are required to pay an additional material fee online in week 2 the latest. Payment receipt to be checked by the tutor in week 3. Students who have not completed the payment will lose access to the marks or materials required for this unit of study. Payment method will be advised via Canvas.

Work, health and safety

How to access the Design Modelling & Fabrication (DMaF) Lab:

1. Online Site Induction Module Available via the DMaF Lab Hub Canvas page. This module must be completed every semester.
2. Area-Specific Inductions Includes inductions for Timber & Metal, Laser Cutting, 3D Printing, CNC Routing, and Robotics. Registration is available after completing the Online Induction Module through the DMaF Lab Hub Canvas page.

(Note: Access to the DMaF Lab previously required completion of the 'DESA1555 Safety Induction & Competency Unit,' which has now been discontinued. The new access process outlined above has replaced it. Please disregard any references to DESA1555 as it is phased out.)

Please check with DMAF for weekly Lab opening hours to manage your access during the semester.
http://dmaf-lab.com/

*Studnets are required to wear appropriate footwear to enter labs and workshops

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

AWSS2027: Arch and Design Creative Practices

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links