LK0365, Landscape history, garden history and plant knowledge, 15.0 Hp
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Syllabus

Level

First cycle (G1F)

Main field of study

Landscape Architecture

Grading Scale

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Course language

Swedish

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The aim of the course is to provide basic knowledge of human history in the landscape and in the history of landscape architecture, as well as deeper knowledge in plant knowledge.

After completing the course the student will be able to:

Knowledge and understanding:

• describe the main features of how humans have used and shaped the Swedish agrarian landscape through history;
• based on historical maps describe and analyze a landscape and present this knowledge in, for instance, a maintenance plan;
• account for the main style periods within landscape architecture (garden, park, designed landscapes) from the first settled cultures of the world to the present, with a focus on Europe;
• put landscape architecture development in relation to architecture history, history of ideas and the development of society at large;
• show how historical examples of landscape architecture relate to the surrounding landscape;
• identify and correctly label a selection of trees and shrubs in their leafless state;
• detect winter-related abiotic damage on plant material;
• explain the plants’ adaptations to the annual climate cycle and describe the diversity of adaptation strategies

Competence and skills

• interpret and compare historical maps with geological conditions and contemporary maps and present the results in an essay;
• draw and discuss the typical characteristics of parks and gardens of the most important style periods;
• explain why winter-related abiotic damage on plants occurs and discuss measures to prevent winter-related damage on plants from occurring and/or worsening.

Content

The course consists of three parts, Swedish historical landscapes, history of landscape architecture and plant knowledge.

Swedish historical landscapes In this part the student study how humans throughout history have used and shaped the agrarian landscape based on the natural conditions of the place. In a compulsory essay the student analyze changes in a well-known landscape. The essay is based on historical sources which are interpreted and compared with modern maps and geological conditions. The content includes lectures and a written examination, and digitally analyzing historical maps and presenting these in an essay.

History of landscape architecture Through lectures and literature the student study the development in landscape architecture in relation to developments of society in general and the history of ideas, trends, etc. Concepts that are central for understanding and describing parks and gardens from different periods are studied. Under supervision the student train interpretation of plans of gardens, parks and designed landscapes. Excursions to parks and gardens are a recurring part of the course. During the excursions students will practice their ability to absorb and understand a place and it’s background, thus giving them a historical context.

Plant knowledge Through lectures, excursions and literature studies the student will receive basic knowledge about the adaptations of plants to the annual climate cycle and how winter-related abiotic damages on plants occur, are identified and prevented. The coursework is largely based on plant tours and the student´s own outdoor studies in which he/she learns to see the differences in various trees and shrubs appearance and structure, in the leafless state. This part of the course concludes with an examination of plants, conducted outdoors.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Written examinations, approved assignments and active participation in field trips and seminars.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Urban and Rural Development

Supplementary information

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Swedish historical landscapes	5.0	0202
History of landscape architecture	7.0	0203
Plant knowledge	3.0	0204

Other Information

Knowledge corresponding to the course Sustainable maintenance of green areas and natural land, and plant knowledge.

Field trips included. Information on costs, if any, is available on the course website four weeks before the course starts.