Training Course: Online in 2021
Introduction to Conserving Modern Architecture
A four-week online training course on the preservation of modern built heritage
September 13–October 13, 2021
The application period is closed.
For information or questions, please contact CMAItraining@getty.edu
Increasingly, design professionals and conservation specialists manage the challenges of conserving buildings from the modern era. The conservation of modern architecture is a recent practice that is unfamiliar to many practitioners. To help address this, the Getty Conservation Institute (GCI), in partnership with the National Center for Preservation Training and Technology (NCPTT), offers an online course on the conservation of modern heritage for professionals and students. Initially offered in 2018 and 2019 at the Getty Center, this course moves online for 2021 and lasts for a month.
Course Description
The course teaches design and conservation professionals the basics about the conservation of modern buildings. Course sessions include an introduction to conservation principles and methodology, deterioration, conservation of common modern materials, and provides guidance on available resources.
The course will begin with a discussion about the challenges of conserving modern heritage within the framework of historic conservation practice and philosophy. Also presented in the course will be a value-based conservation methodology and how to apply this methodology, using two current case studies. Instructors will also explore the challenges, available tools, and good practices for identifying, documenting, and introducing protection of modern sites.
Lectures will focus on common materials and systems found in modern buildings such as, reinforced concrete, common interior finishes, windows, and curtain walls. These sessions will also include an introduction to materials history and basic knowledge on their deterioration, diagnosis, and repair. Case studies will illustrate the discussed concepts and demonstrate practical conservation solutions. Videos will also provide opportunities for participants to watch testing and tools, along with hands-on activities.
Format and Time Commitment
The course is hosted on an online educational platform. Because participants may live around the world, the course will be mostly asynchronous through pre-recorded video lectures to accommodate various time zones.
Live sessions will focus on questions and answers (Q&A) and class discussions. Participants will also want to get to know each other, interact and exchange ideas, so we have planned interactive components and a class exercise where we encourage registrants to actively participate.
The course is structured into eight total modules, two modules per week for a full four weeks. Modules will be released on a set date, and you can watch any time before joining the relevant scheduled live session.
Each module is comprised of:
Short pre-recorded video lectures that you can watch on your own before the scheduled live sessions
Required and optional reading
An online forum where participants can ask questions and start a conversation regarding lesson topics
Live sessions for Q&A and class discussions
We estimate a weekly workload of eight to nine hours: four hours of pre-recorded video, two hours of live sessions or interactive components, and one to three hours for readings.
Please note that we cannot offer American Institute of Architects (AIA) Learning Units, but we will provide you a certificate of attendance at the end of the course.
Eligibility
The course is limited to twenty-five participants. Participants should be professionals or students, including but not limited to architects, conservators, preservation officers, engineers, stewards, facilities managers, etc.
For further information or questions, please contact CMAItraining@getty.edu
Page updated: May 2021