Course Overview
Students will spend at least five days in an intensive, faculty-led field study in a culturally and design-significant location outside Metro Vancouver. This experiential learning opportunity is essential for advancing students' understanding of global perspectives, cultural diversity, and the influence of historical and contemporary contexts on the built environment. Prior to departure, students will collaborate in teams to research the destination's cultural, environmental, and architectural context, as well as establishing their travel logistics and budget considerations. While on-site, students will engage in activities such as guided tours, site visits to design and architectural practices, and explorations of museums, galleries, and heritage or culturally significant sites. These activities expose students to diverse worldviews, design values, and material practices. Through direct observation and documentation, using sketching, photography, video, and field notes, students will examine topics such as sustainability, aesthetics, local materials, and construction methods. Upon return, students will reflect on and analyze their field experience to support the development of globally relevant, socially responsible, and culturally responsive interior design solutions.
Prerequisite(s)
- Acceptance into the Bachelor of Interior Design.
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:
- Research the locale's history, culture, traditions, festivals, language, art, interior design, and architecture to establish contextual understanding.
- Plan the itinerary for the selected locale, incorporating relevant cultural, architectural, and design sites, as well as travel logistics.
- Exhibit professionalism and accountability while attending and participating in all aspects of the field study, including punctuality, conduct, and engagement.
- Compile and record daily observations related to focus topics through sketches, photographs, video, and written reflections.
- Explore issues related to climate, sustainability, and the social, economic, political, and cultural norms of the chosen locale.
- Compare and contrast the built environment of the locale with that of Metro Vancouver.
- Reflect on how the locale's aesthetics, culture, and design practices contribute to a broader understanding of global design solutions.
- Present a summary of the field study experience collaboratively, as a team, demonstrating key insights, visual documentation, and critical reflection.
Effective as of Fall 2025
Related Programs
Field Study for Interior Design (INTD 6370) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
- Indicates programs with a co-op option.
- Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
School of Construction and the Environment
- Interior Design
Bachelor of Interior Design Full-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.