Course Information
Course Number:
Course Title:
Section:
Time:
Location:
Credit Hours:
Course Syllabus
ARCH 249
Survey of Architecture History I
700
No scheduled meeting times
https://canvas.tamu.edu
3
Instructor Details
Instructor:
Dr. Stephen Caffey
Office:
ARCA 422B in the Department of Architecture office suite
Phone:
979-845-5134 (voice mail)
E-Mail:
via Inbox on Canvas (always copy All in Teaching Assistants when emailing Dr. Caffey)
Office Hours:
Wednesdays, 2:00 – 4:00 pm and by appointment (in office or via Zoom)
Office Hours Zoom Link: https://tamu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAucO-tqzwtEtDC9w4Pms3KdGCDcF-_2R84
Course Description
Survey of World Architecture History I. (3-0). Credit 3. A survey of world architecture and the human- designed and built
environment from prehistory to the 13th century.
ARCH 249 explores ideas related to creativity in architecture from diverse historical/cultural perspectives and introduces
precedents and fundamental concepts that have impacted the form of the built environment in every time period and
geographical location between the prehistoric and Gothic eras. Through the examination of parallel and divergent
canons and traditions of architecture from around the world, students will also be introduced to issues of heritage
conservation, cultural patrimony and stewardship, and expressions of cultural identity and social diversity in designed
and built environments past and present. ARCH 249 is an introductory-level course, designed for students majoring in
the Bachelor of Science in Architecture, pursuing a minor in Art and Architectural history, and for all others who seek an
overview of prehistoric through medieval architecture.
Course Prerequisites
None.
Special Course Designation
KCRA - Core Creative Arts (KCRA)
KICD - Univ Req-Int'l&Cult Div (KICD)
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Special Course Designation, continued
Course Syllabus
Learning Objectives for Core Curriculum Courses in Creative Arts: ARCH 249 will address the following skills through
individual and group exercises, assignments, and class participation activities:
•
•
•
•
Critical Thinking (including creative thinking, innovation, inquiry, and analysis, evaluation and synthesis of
information).
Communication (including effective development, interpretation and expression of ideas through written,
oral and visual communication).
Teamwork (including the ability to consider different points of view and to work effectively with others to
support a shared purpose or goal). All students must contribute to the team class participation assignment
to earn Core Curriculum Credit for ARCH 249.700.
Social Responsibility (including intercultural competence, knowledge of civic responsibility, and the ability
to engage effectively in regional, national, and global communities).
ARCH 249 satisfies the Texas A&M University graduation requirement for International and Cultural Diversity (ICD).
ARCH 249 examines the global built environment in a diverse range of cultural and religious contexts from prehistory to
the 13th century. In this cultural-historical approach to architectural history, students develop an awareness of the
religious architecture of many faiths (e.g., Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Shintoism), the evidence for the
transmission of design and technology across cultures and over time, and an understanding of how cultural identity is
expressed in designed and built environments. The survival of many historic structures to the present day provides an
opportunity to discuss issues of social memory, identity, adaptive reuse, and historic preservation. By learning how to
appreciate, understand, and respect the built environments of different cultures, students will gain insights into how the
worlds we build has always reflected who we are.
Learning Objectives for International and Cultural Diversity (ICD) Courses:
• Live and work effectively in a diverse and global society.
• Articulate the value of a diverse and global perspective.
• Recognize diverse opinions and practices (including but not limited to economic, political, cultural, gender,
and religious opinions) and consider different points of view.
Course Learning Outcomes
Every student in ARCH 249 will have the opportunity to understand architecture through analysis of form, function,
and context. By exploring the built environment from prehistory to the Medieval period, students will develop a
critical approach to understanding elements of design, construction, and theory. Students who successfully complete
this course will be able to:
 Visually recognize and differentiate between different types of architectural illustrations (plans, elevations, sections,
perspective drawings, orthographic drawings, axonometric projections, digital renderings, etc.).
 Visually recognize and identify significant elements in architectural illustrations.
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Course Learning Outcomes, continued
Course Syllabus
 Observe, analyze, and describe, using formal and technical vocabulary, the defining characteristics of buildings.
 Distinguish significant developments in design and construction.
 Explain the importance of cultural heritage and its contribution to social memory, identity, adaptive reuse, and historic
preservation at regional, national, and global scales.
 Investigate and interpret evidence for the transmission of styles and design across time periods, geographic regions,
and cultures.
 Build a chronological framework for illustrating the development of construction and engineering techniques.
 Critically assess the value and validity of various architectural theories as they apply to monuments from the various
time periods under consideration.
Textbook and/or Resource Materials
Required Textbook: Michael Fazio, Marian Moffett, and Lawrence Wodehouse, Buildings across Time: An Introduction to
World Architecture. McGraw-Hill – 6th edition eText with SmartBook. The textbook is included in tuition and fees and
may be accessed via the Course Materials navigation link on Canvas.
All other required and suggested content will be posted on or linked via the Canvas website.
Grading Policy
The final course grades comprises the sum of 5 exams, class participation exercises, and SmartBook exercises:
Exam 1
15 points possible
Exam 2
15 points possible
Exam 3
15 points possible
Exam 4
15 points possible
Exam 5
15 points possible
Buildings across Time SmartBook Exercises
10 points possible
Definitions Class Participation Exercise
5 points possible (submitted in two parts)
Team Class Participation Assignment
10 points possible (submitted in two parts)
Final Course Grade
100 points possible
Late Work Policy
Work submitted by a student as makeup work for an excused absence is not considered late work and is exempted
from the late work policy (Student Rule 7).
Any late submissions not related to an excused absence will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
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University Policies
Course Syllabus
Attendance Policy
The university views class attendance and participation as an individual student responsibility. Students are expected to
attend class and to complete all assignments.
Please refer to Student Rule 7 in its entirety for information about excused absences, including definitions, and related
documentation and timelines.
Makeup Work Policy
Students will be excused from attending class on the day of a graded activity or when attendance contributes to a
student’s grade, for the reasons stated in Student Rule 7, or other reason deemed appropriate by the instructor.
Please refer to Student Rule 7 in its entirety for information about makeup work, including definitions, and related
documentation and timelines.
Absences related to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 may necessitate a period of more than 30 days for
make-up work, and the timeframe for make-up work should be agreed upon by the student and instructor” (Student
Rule 7, Section 7.4.1).
“The instructor is under no obligation to provide an opportunity for the student to make up work missed because of an
unexcused absence” (Student Rule 7, Section 7.4.2).
Students who request an excused absence are expected to uphold the Aggie Honor Code and Student Conduct Code.
(See Student Rule 24.)
Academic Integrity Statement and Policy
“An Aggie does not lie, cheat or steal, or tolerate those who do.”
“Texas A&M University students are responsible for authenticating all work submitted to an instructor. If asked,
students must be able to produce proof that the item submitted is indeed the work of that student. Students must keep
appropriate records at all times. The inability to authenticate one’s work, should the instructor request it, may be
sufficient grounds to initiate an academic misconduct case” (Section 20.1.2.3, Student Rule 20).
You can learn more about the Aggie Honor System Office Rules and Procedures, academic integrity, and your rights and
responsibilities at aggiehonor.tamu.edu.
Page 4 of 8
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Policy
Course Syllabus
Texas A&M University is committed to providing equitable access to learning opportunities for all students. If you
experience barriers to your education due to a disability or think you may have a disability, please contact the Disability
Resources office on your campus (resources listed below) Disabilities may include, but are not limited to attentional,
learning, mental health, sensory, physical, or chronic health conditions. All students are encouraged to discuss their
disability related needs with Disability Resources and their instructors as soon as possible.
Disability Resources is located in the Student Services Building or at (979) 845-1637 or visit disability.tamu.edu.
Title IX and Statement on Limits to Confidentiality
Texas A&M University is committed to fostering a learning environment that is safe and productive for all. University
policies and federal and state laws prohibit gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment, including sexual assault,
sexual exploitation, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.
With the exception of some medical and mental health providers, all university employees (including full and part-time
faculty, staff, paid graduate assistants, student workers, etc.) are Mandatory Reporters and must report to the Title IX
Office if the employee experiences, observes, or becomes aware of an incident that meets the following conditions (see
University Rule 08.01.01.M1):
•
•
The incident is reasonably believed to be discrimination or harassment.
The incident is alleged to have been committed by or against a person who, at the time of the incident, was (1) a
student enrolled at the University or (2) an employee of the University.
Mandatory Reporters must file a report regardless of how the information comes to their attention – including but not
limited to face-to-face conversations, a written class assignment or paper, class discussion, email, text, or social media
post. Although Mandatory Reporters must file a report, in most instances, a person who is subjected to the alleged
conduct will be able to control how the report is handled, including whether or not to pursue a formal investigation. The
University’s goal is to make sure you are aware of the range of options available to you and to ensure access to the
resources you need.
Students wishing to discuss concerns related to mental and/or physical health in a confidential setting are encouraged to
make an appointment with University Health Services or download the TELUS Health Student Support app for 24/7
access to professional counseling in multiple languages. Walk-in services for urgent, non-emergency needs are available
during normal business hours at University Health Services locations; call 979.458.4584 for details.
Students can learn more about filing a report, accessing supportive resources, and navigating the Title IX investigation
and resolution process on the University’s Title IX webpage.
Page 5 of 8
Statement on Mental Health and Wellness
Course Syllabus
Texas A&M University recognizes that mental health and wellness are critical factors influencing a student’s academic
success and overall wellbeing. Students are encouraged to engage in healthy self-care practices by utilizing the resources
and services available through University Health Services. Students needing a listening ear can call the Texas A&M
Helpline (979.845.2700) from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. weekdays and 24 hours on weekends for mental health peer
support while classes are in session. The TELUS Health Student Support app provides access to professional counseling in
multiple languages anytime, anywhere by phone or chat, and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24-hour emergency
support at 988 or 988lifeline.org.
Students needing a listening ear can contact University Health Services (979.458.4584) or call the Texas A&M Helpline
(979.845.2700) from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. weekdays and 24 hours on weekends while classes are in session. 24-hour
emergency help is also available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988) or at 988lifeline.org.
Campus-Specific Policies
The following statements below are optional. Leave as is to include, or delete if preferred. Either way, delete this note.
Statement on the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
FERPA is a federal law designed to protect the privacy of educational records by limiting access to these records, to
establish the right of students to inspect and review their educational records and to provide guidelines for the
correction of inaccurate and misleading data through informal and formal hearings. Currently enrolled students
wishing to withhold any or all directory information items may do so by going to howdy.tamu.edu and clicking on the
"Directory Hold Information" link in the Student Records channel on the MyRecord tab. The complete FERPA Notice to
Students and the student records policy is available on the Office of the Registrar webpage.
Items that can never be identified as public information are a student’s social security number, citizenship, gender,
grades, GPR or class schedule. All efforts will be made in this class to protect your privacy and to ensure confidential
treatment of information associated with or generated by your participation in the class.
Directory items include name, UIN, local address, permanent address, email address, local telephone number,
permanent telephone number, dates of attendance, program of study (college, major, campus), classification, previous
institutions attended, degrees honors and awards received, participation in officially recognized activities and sports,
medical residence location and medical residence specialization.
Page 6 of 8
Course Syllabus
Additional Instructor Guidelines
Use of Generative AI
ARCH 249.700 online supports exploring AI-based tools like ChatGPT, Claude AI, DALL-E, Midjourney, Perplexity AI, and
Consensus AI to enhance your learning experience. However, it's crucial to maintain academic integrity and avoid any
form of plagiarism or dishonesty to uphold the Aggie Honor Code. AI-based tools can be valuable when used correctly,
but they can also lead to problems if misused. This policy applies only to ARCH 249.700 Online. Please check with your
instructors in other classes before using any AI-based tools. Here are some clear guidelines to help you use AI
responsibly without compromising your integrity:
1. Know the Limits: AI tools can aid in research and idea generation but should never replace your own critical thinking
and analysis. Use them as tools to assist your work, not as a substitute for your own effort. AI-based tools often produce
inaccurate or incorrect results, so be sure to confirm the accuracy and correctness of any results included in an
assignment, exercise, or activity submission.
2. Cite and Attribute: Always give credit when you use AI-generated content or information. Clearly indicate when an
idea or piece of content is not your own. Fully disclosing any use of AI-based tools will minimize the risk of an Aggie
Honor System Office violation report.
3. Focus on Originality: Assignments, discussions, and extra credit activities require your personal insights and
interpretations. While AI can provide information, we want to see your unique perspective.
4. Collaborate Responsibly: For the team exercises in Exam 4 and Exam 5 modules, collaborate in a way that respects
each member's contributions, and give proper credit to your peers.
5. Avoid Plagiarism: We use plagiarism detection software to identify unoriginal content. Always review and revise any
AI-generated material to ensure it reflects your own thoughts and includes proper citations.
6. Manage Your Time: Don’t rely on AI tools to finish assignments at the last minute. Proper time management will help
you avoid the temptation to misuse these tools.
7. Ask for Help: If you're unsure about how to use AI tools appropriately, reach out to Dr. Caffey or the graduate
assistants. We’re here to help.
Remember, this course is designed to build your knowledge and critical thinking skills. AI tools should support, not
replace, your personal intellectual growth. Integrity is a core Aggie value—live it!"
Reference:
OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT 3.5 (Jan 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat
Page 7 of 8
College and Department Policies
Course Syllabus
Please respect facilities in the College of Architecture (studio spaces, photo lab, fabrication facilities, research labs,
studio desks, etc.)
The use of spray paint, spray adhesive or other surface-altering materials is restricted to the paint booth facility outside
the ground floor exit for Langford Building A. Students who violate this rule will be liable for the expenses associated
with repairing damaged building finishes and surfaces.
Throughout the semester and at the end of the semester, your studio desk area must be clean of all trash. You are
responsible for cleaning your studio, desk, and locker at the end of each semester.
No power tools may be used in the design studio. No dust or odor-producing processes may be conducted in the studio.
No wet casting processes may be conducted in the studio. The College of Architecture shop and spray booth facilities
must be used for the above-mentioned processes. Professional behavior and conduct are expected of each student.
All studio desks must be covered. In addition, students must have at minimum an 18” x 24” cutting mat at their desk.
Statement of Inclusion
Texas A&M University is committed to enriching learning and working environments for all visitors, students, faculty,
and staff by promoting a culture that embraces inclusion, diversity, equity, and accountability. Diverse perspectives,
talents, and identities are vital to accomplishing our mission and living our core values.
Page 8 of 8
ARCH 249.700 Fall 2024 Schedule
This schedule serves as a general guideline to help keep everyone on track. In the unlikely event of changes to this schedule, the instructor will notify students via Canvas
Announcements, which will also be sent to each student’s tamu.edu email address. This course covers 175,000 years of architectural history across the globe in 15 weeks. Start
early completing the class participation assignments and SmartBook exercises and set a schedule each day to watch the lecture videos and review the required readings. Use the
General Discussion Board and/or the Inbox navigation tool on Canvas to organize or join a study group. Students who work with study groups perform better on exams.
First things first: complete the Active Learning Agreement Quiz in the Modules section on Canvas to unlock the content for Exam 1.
EXAM 1 MODULE
Weeks
1-3
Dates
8/199/9
Lecture Video Titles
01_Introductions (also
available on the ARCH 249
Canvas home page)
02_Preview of Course
Themes
03_Prehistoric Architecture
04_Ancient Architecture
Required Readings, Films, and Online Resources
Buildings across Time pages 1-20
Required Readings Google Drive Folder:
• Architecture
• Hagar Qim
• Neolithic Architecture
• Newgrange
• Jerico
• Babylon
• Persepolis
Watch the required Video Stonehenge
Class Participation, Assignments, Exams Due 9/9 by 11:59 pm
SCORE 100% ON THE ACTIVE
LEARNING AGREEMENT QUIZ TO
UNLOCK EXAM 1 CONTENT
Exam 1
Introductions Discussion Board
Definitions Class
Participation
Exercise Part 1*
Definitions Class Participation
Exercise Part 1*
SmartBook
Chapter 1
Connect SmartBook Chapter 1
Exam 1 released on
Friday, September 6
at 12:00 noon
Introductions
Extra Credit
Exam 1 Extra
Credit
*Eligibility for full credit on the Definitions Class Participation Exercise Parts 1 and 2 requires two sets of entries. The first entry must be submitted by 11:59 pm on Monday, September 9.
The Definitions Discussion Board Class Participation Exercise grade will appear in the Canvas gradebook once the second set of entries is submitted in the Exam 5 Module.
EXAM 2 MODULE
Weeks
Dates
Lecture Video Titles
05_Ancient Egypt
4-6
9/99/30
06_Ancient Greece
Required Readings, Films, and Online Resources
Buildings across Time pages 21-33
Required Readings Google Drive Folder:
• Pyramid
• Mastaba
• Saqqara
• Imhotep
Explore the Digital Karnak website
Watch the required video Pyramids
Buildings across Time pages 34-61
Required Readings Google Drive Folder:
• Minoan
• Knossos
• Mycenae
• Tholos Tomb
• Acropolis
• Greek City Planning
• Hippodamos
Watch the required video Parthenon
Class Participation, Assignments, Exams Due 9/30 by 11:59 pm
Pyramids Critical Thinking Assignment:
Evaluate the Evidence
Exam 2
SmartBook
Chapter 2
Connect SmartBook Chapter 2
Exam 2 released on
Friday, September 27
at 12:00 noon
Pyramids Critical
Thinking Assignment
Exam 2 Extra Credit
EXAM 3 MODULE
Weeks
Dates
Lecture Video Titles
07_Ancient Rome
7-9
9/3010/21
08_Early Judaism
09_Early Christianity
10_Early Islam
Required Readings, Films, and Online Resources
Buildings across Time pages 104-131
Required Readings Google Drive Folder:
• Etruscan Architecture
• Ancient Roman Architecture
• Forum Romanum
• Basilica
• Architectural Orders
• Pantheon
• Colosseum
Buildings across Time pages 132-175
Required Readings Google Drive Folder:
• Church Types
• Ravenna
• Santa Costanza
• Hagia Sophia
• Hosios Loukas
• Islamic Architecture
• Córdoba
Watch the required video When the Moors Ruled in Europe
Class Participation,
Assignments, Exams
Due 10/21
by 11:59 pm
SmartBook
Chapter 5
Exam 3
SmartBook
Chapters 5, 6, and 7
SmartBook Chapter 6
SmartBook Chapter 7
Exam 3 released on
Friday, October 18
at 12:00 noon
Exam 3 Extra Credit
EXAM 4 MODULE
Weeks
Dates
Lecture Video Titles
11_South and Southeast Asia
10-12
10/2111/11
12_China
13_Japan
14_Korea
15_The Americas
16_Indigenous Africa
Required Readings, Films, and Online Resources
Buildings across Time pages 62-79
Required Readings Google Drive Folder:
• South Asia
• Mohenjo-daro
• Stupa
Buildings across Time pages 80-103
Required Readings Google Drive Folder:
• Chinese Architecture
• Pagoda
• Japanese Architecture
• Ise Shrine
Buildings across Time pages 275-285
Required Readings Google Drive Folder:
• Pre-Columbian Architecture in Mesoamerica
• Cahokia
• Native North American Temples
• Teotihuacán
Watch the required video Machu Picchu
Required Readings Google Drive Folder:
• Architecture in Africa
• Ethiopia and Eritrea
• Great Zimbabwe
Watch the required video Lalibela
Class Participation, Assignments,
Exams
Due 11/11
by 11:59 pm
SmartBook Chapter 3
SmartBook Chapter 4
SmartBook Chapter 10
Team Class Participation Exercise Part 1
Exam 4
SmartBook
Chapters
3, 4, and 10
Team Class
Participation
Exercise Part 1
Exam 4 Extra Credit
Exam 4 released on
Friday, November 8
at 12:00 noon
EXAM 5 MODULE
Weeks
Dates
Lecture Video Titles
17_Medieval and Romanesque
Architecture
13-15
Required Readings, Films, and Online Resources
Buildings across Time pages 176-211
Required Readings Google Drive folder:
• Aachen
• Saint-Martin-du-Canigou
• Vézelay
• Hildesheim
• Speyer
Buildings across Time pages 212-249
Required Readings Google Drive folder:
• Gothic Architecture
11/1112/2
18_Gothic Architecture
Watch the required video Building the Great Cathedrals
Submit complete Course Evaluations, including
comments on what worked well in the course, what
could be better, and specific suggestions to make it
better via the Course Evaluations navigation link on
Canvas. Your comments will help improve the class for
future Aggies!
Due Tuesday,
Class Participation, Assignments,
12/10 by 11:59 pm
Exams
SmartBook Chapter 8
Exam 5
SmartBook Chapter 9
Team Class Participation
Exercise Part 2
Definitions Class Participation
Exercise Part 2
Course Evaluations due
by 11:59 pm on 12/2
Exam 5 released on
Friday, December 6 at
12:00 noon
SmartBook
Chapters 8 and 9
Team Class
Participation
Exercise Part 2
Definitions Class
Participation
Exercise Part 2
Exam 5 Extra Credit
The Team Class Participation Exercise requires two sets of entries. The Team Class Participation Exercise grade will not appear in the Canvas gradebook until both sets of
entries are submitted in Exam Modules 4 and 5. Final course grades will appear on howdy before they appear on Canvas.