IN-PERSON London. Section B

Abstract

This research is designed to build an integrated building science and high-performance building decarbonization spine of modules within the architecture department. This spine will be used to develop a new minor, and subsequently a major, in Climate Studies. This Climate Studies major and decarbonization spine will be utilized to explore the feasibility of developing a new College of Environmental Design and Decarbonization. New York City is striving to be at the forefront of the United States’ decarbonization approach. The New York City College of Technology (City Tech), which has one of the largest architecture programs in the country, is ranked as one of the most successful universities for social mobility. Given City Tech’s size, position, and student demographic, this program can be leveraged to provide thinkers and professionals to help New York City lead in decarbonization and empower its diverse student body. The spine is being constructed using the Department of Energy Solar Decathlon Building Science Education Series, Passive House certification training, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building rating system education, and ASHRAE environmental benchmarking. Using these templates to develop the spine will facilitate the possibility of offering students the opportunity to gain external accreditation through related programs. The spine will be implemented to accommodate the 2-, 4-, and 5-year degree programs. Careful attention is being given to scaffolding for the various degree programs and to meet the needs of our diverse students. The research includes specific sequence learning goals and assessment matrices for this diverse urban student body.