OVERVIEW

The teaching represents an introduction to the botanical sciences and the plant ecology applied to architecture related with the use of the plant component within the project.
 

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of the course the students: will have learned the basic concepts on the main morphological, structural and functional characteristics of plant organisms in particular of Spermatophytes; they will be able to recognize the most common ornamental species in parks, historic gardens and urban greening; they will have acquired knowledge on plant diversity; they will have the basic knowledge to evaluate which plants can be useful in green design, in compliance with the regulations, referring to the ecological characteristics and the distribution of the species in the different terrestrial environments.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The module, within the framework of teaching in Botany Applied to Architecture and Landscape, provides the tools to understand the structure, form, and function of plants, the characteristics of the main families, and how these can be employed in the creation of projects that integrate the plant component in various contexts and scales.

The module provides the knowledge to understand and use data regarding flora derived from specialized texts, bibliographic data, and scientific publications. This foundational knowledge will find practical application through the module of applied botany to landscape and field activities with direct plant identification.

Specifically, the aim is to train students to adopt an approach that enables them to:

• understand the biological bases of the "functioning" of higher plants.
• acquire basic knowledge to recognize the main families and plant species to be used in sustainable landscape planning and design;
• evaluate the integrated use of plants in various design contexts, at different scales.

TEACHING METHODS

Classroom and field activities are planned (visits to parks and gardens, visit to the botanical garden). In the classroom, theoretical and practical aspects related to the knowledge of the morphology, anatomy, and physiology of plants and the recognition of the main species are addressed, in relation to their use for design purposes. Field activities complement those conducted in the classroom with the direct observation of species and their characteristics.

Lessons are conducted with the aid of PowerPoint presentations that illustrate the concepts and content expressed orally by the teacher. These materials are made available on Aulaweb. The course includes field activities and visits to parks and gardens aimed at putting into practice the theoretical knowledge provided and discussed during the lessons.

Students with a valid certification of physical or learning disabilities filed with the University who wish to request compensatory tools, exemption measures, or other accommodations for lessons, assignments, and exams should speak with both the teacher and the Department's disability coordinator.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

• Fundamental characteristics of plant organisms and their role in nature.
• Structures and functions of plant cells and tissues.
• Basics of plant anatomy: root, stem, leaf.
• Environmental adaptations.
• Vital processes of plants: photosynthesis and respiration; water transport and balance; reproduction and development.
• General principles of systematics and taxonomy.
• Forms, functions, and roles of the main plant groups.
• Native and non-native ornamental flora: main families and species used in ornamental and urban greenery.
• Main plant families, their characteristics, and their use in projects applicable to different contexts and scales.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Reference text

DUFFY TURNER K. Botany for Designers: A Practical Guide for Landscape Architects and Other Professionals, W. W. Norton & Company

General Botany

VENTURELLI F., VIRLI L., 1995 – Invito alla Botanica, Zanichelli, Bologna

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

ENRICA ROCCOTIELLO (President)

MAURO MARIOTTI

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Please refer to the detailed schedule at the following link: https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The acquisition of the knowledge covered in the course and the ability to present it correctly are assessed through an oral exam that includes several questions covering the entire program and the practical activities conducted. In addition to the understanding of the topics discussed, the ability to relate these topics to aspects of green planning and management is evaluated.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

In addition to the oral exam, on which the exam grade is based, periodic tests may be conducted throughout the year to periodically assess learning.

Exam schedule

FURTHER INFORMATION

Regular attendance is strongly recommended.