Course Learning Objectives

• To gain an integrated understanding of culture, history and design traditions, including: architecture, city planning, urban design, landscape architecture, and popular culture
• To visit and experience some of the classic and contemporary examples of landscape architecture and urban design.
• To learn how the design and use of urban space contributes to cultural identity and reveals cultural preferences.
• To integrate research and travel skills to enhance experiential learning.

Student Work

Over the past few years UMass graduate and undergraduate students have traveled to France, Germany, Italy, Netherland, Portugal and Spain during spring break with Jack Ahern. Students have prepared descriptions of numerous places studied and visited.