Course content

The course is an introduction to the theory and methods for describing and practically investigating heritage buildings and environments (archival research, surveying, building archaeology, etc.) with regard to physical and material characteristics, technical condition, history, and cultural value.

Furthermore, the course provides an introduction to relevant laws and regulations, zoning plans, and pertinent professional literature. The purpose is to learn how to create a solid basis for decision-making in the planning of interventions on and within heritage buildings.

Learning outcome

The course provides an introduction to freehand drawing and modeling, as well as the basic principles of technical drawing, perspective, and projection.

The course encourages reflection and discussion on the documentation of buildings, building components, and artifacts, highlighting recognized methods and limitations for documentation work in the cultural heritage field.

Knowledge:

• The theoretical foundations of cultural heritage conservation
• Valuation and justification of cultural heritage
• Use of archival materials and archival research related to buildings
• Use of manual and digital methods for surveying buildings
• Material and building physics knowledge necessary for performing technical condition assessments, including knowledge of biological degradation
• Reuse, circular economy, and sustainability as overarching themes throughout the course

Skills:

• Systematic and multidisciplinary data collection through fieldwork on specific buildings
• Documentation and assessment of technical condition at an overall level
• Ability to interpret buildings as historical documents based on building history and building archaeology knowledge
• Ability to synthesize large amounts of detailed knowledge into a comprehensive understanding and presentation of the conditions, qualities, and potentials of a built environment

General Competence:

• A fundamental understanding of existing buildings as resources within a broad conceptual framework
• Ability to recognize values, potential usability qualities, and limitations
• Practice in presenting and communicating complex material in a clear written form
• Ability to collaborate effectively in interdisciplinary groups

Learning methods and activities

Teaching is based on field studies of existing buildings and building environments, where guidance is provided on various techniques and methods on-site. The course also includes an exercise in archival studies. During the semester, lectures and seminars on relevant topics will be organized.

Students conduct the field studies in interdisciplinary groups and submit group reports as the conclusion of the course.

One or more home assignments will also be given.

Compulsory assignments

• Participation on seminars
• Home assignment
• Group report

Required previous knowledge

Applicants must have general university admission certification (generell studiekompetanse) and a relevant vocational or journeyman’s certificate (fag- eller svennebrev), or equivalent competence. Applicants who do not meet the Higher Education Entrance Qualification may apply based on prior learning and work experience.

Relevant vocational certificates in this context include:

• Carpenter
• Joinery trades, such as: cooper, wooden boat builder, model builder, cabinetmaker, organ builder, wood turner, wood carver, joiner
• Forestry and timber trades, such as: forestry operator, skilled operator in timber processing

Course materials

Curriculum

Credit reductions