This is a comprehensive, dialogue-based course providing an in-depth exploration of the vernacular concept and its applications to the culture and built environments of the past, present, and future. Designed to promote discussion and dialogue while contributing to the discourse surrounding the concept of the vernacular, this course will challenge the perception of tradition and stimulate a deeper analysis of one's local environment. Fundamentally, vernacular implies a distinct local expression in building or language, and raises questions of identity, tradition, and transmission. This course presents a broad understanding of the vernacular with emphasis on the built heritage of Asia, including topics such as indigenous building materials, the ideas of use and tradition and the vernacular landscape. Much of the Asian vernacular built heritage emerges from the assimilation of different cultures with immigration and trading patterns circulating throughout the region, providing both explicit and subtle references to the countries of their origin. As such, Asia serves as an ideal platform for the investigation into vernacular systems around the world. While the various countries that play host to the course's discussions are found mainly in the Asian region, the diversity of cultures represented allows for students from any background to find common ground and familiarize themselves with the topics covered, increasing their understanding of vernacular architecture in their own surroundings. This is a 5-week introductory course with videos, readings, interactive engagements, assessments and discussion forums. Each week, a new discussion topic will be raised, followed by a panel discussion with guest instructors and site visits to various locations relevant to each topic. Relevant readings will be assigned and the course will be graded based on weekly assignments and short quizzes.