For the first “position” paper of the semester, each student will undertake a RESEARCH project
exploring how architecture can instigate positive change. Each student will begin the paper by
describing why they specifically choose architecture to study and how they hope to promote
positive change through this choice. This rather “personal” starting point must quickly evolve
into a well-researched argument that aligns with or contests the views of prominent scholars
within the disciplinary areas and issues the student seeks to describe. Assertions need to be
clearly defined, such as why you think that the issue that was chosen is important and how
architecture can specifically drive the forces of change necessary to address it. This is not a
paper about a particular building per se, but should be about the future “agency” of the
architect (YOURS!) as well as the power of the design skill set of the discipline you have
entered. Can it can bring about positive change and what are the “contingent” issues that drew
you to architecture related to this issue? More than likely this will be the first, or one of the first
attempts by students to contemplate why they were drawn to architecture as well as initial
thoughts on the issues that will guide their subsequent careers. Hopefully, in the future it will
energize your designs, and inform your passion for architecture.
Length/position paper: Minimum word count: 1000 words/Maximum word count: 1250
words
Format/Structure: Give an interesting title (Draw the reader in!). The paper’s central argument
should then be broken into three parts:
Part 01: Why you chose architecture…
Within this section, the student will explain their reason for choosing architecture. For instance:
I have always liked buildings and aesthetics, but have been disappointed in much that I
encounter today. I hope to contribute to positive change regarding this by/through
architecture….
Part 02: What societal issues drew you to want to study architecture? What positive changes do
you think architecture can bring to beginning to address these issues?
Outline the specific conditions that need to be met or changed for the necessary transformation to
occur. For instance: “Architecture has to create healthy places in a meaningful way. Its
current attempts are just a “band aid” methodology and I would like to explore in my career
how health issues can be become more important and integral to the design of the built
environment….”
Part 03: How can architecture change the world? (Why do you think architecture can address
this issue and how specifically, do you think it can be affective?)
“Architecture can create healthy places in a meaningful way by focusing not only on
buildings, but by also considering the connective systems of landscape between buildings. This
will not only make urban environments more cohesive, but will promote more exercise to
encourage a more healthy lifestyle. I feel if these specific systems are addressed….”
This is a research paper that needs to utilize peer reviewed journals/books (NO WIKIPEDIA
OR GOOGLE) to legitimize your arguments. These types of articles may be accessed online, so
you should begin your search on the Auraria Library website and look for online (e)texts or
(e)resources. It is suggested that you consult a librarian for assistance. This can be done online
through the Auraria Library website. Also, please carefully review this page – it is very
helpful: https://library.auraria.edu/news/2020/auraria-library-safe-return-planLinks to an external
site. for describing access to the library currently.
Each paper should have at least 3 articles referenced IN ADDITION to those assigned in class.
Each paper should have a bibliography and references. You can use either “Chicago Manual of
Style” or “MLA” for your “reference” form, but choose one and be consistent! There are two
links below that will assist you in your citations. If you use images, please cite them as well.
Chicago Manual of style:
https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/chicago_manual_17th_edition/cmos_formattin
g_and_style_guide/chicago_manual_of_style_17th_edition.htmlLinks to an external site.
MLA Formatting and Style Guide:
https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/ml
a_formatting_and_style_guide.htmlLinks to an external site.
It cannot be stressed enough the importance of references. If a paper is not referenced properly, it
is technically plagiarism, so please take your references seriously! I am adding the plagiarism
statement from the syllabus below. PLEASE REVIEW! Suspected cases of plagiarism will be
forwarded to the Department Chair of Architecture.