An assessment of the impact of computer tools on design in architecture /
Computers have had tremendous impact in all aspects of human life, both professionally and personally. While the value of computer tools in the production of building documents is well established and accepted by architecture community, the extent of their use and their impact in the early stages o...
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| Format: | Thesis Book |
| Language: | English |
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[Place of publication not identified] :
[publisher not identified] ;
1996.
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://proxy.library.tamu.edu/login?url=http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=739324061&sid=1&Fmt=2&clientId=2945&RQT=309&VName=PQD |
| Summary: | Computers have had tremendous impact in all aspects of human life, both professionally and personally. While the value of computer tools in the production of building documents is well established and accepted by architecture community, the extent of their use and their impact in the early stages of design (architectural programming and schematic design) has not been extensively assessed. This study has surveyed practitioners, educators, and students of architecture to determine-nine the extent of impact of computer tools on the early design phases, the degree of preparedness of architecture graduates, and the community's willingness to participate in computer continuing education. Survey questionnaires were sent to practitioners in major cities in the United States, educators and students of 24 accredited architecture schools, and members of Association for Computer-Aided Design in Architecture (ACADIA). These data were analyzed using descriptive as well as inferential statistical methods using SAS. The extent of use of the computer in early design phases was around 'average' throughout the community. The use of computer tools was higher in schematic design than in programming. Large firms appeared to have more indication in use of computers in design specially in early two phases. The top three advantages of computer as compared to traditional method of design were better presentation, better marketing, and more availability of the data. The respondents tended to agree that computers have caused a dramatic change in the way architects design and practice, architects cannot do without computers, and that computers are complements to traditional design. All groups except ACADIA members disagreed with the idea of computers as true design tools' and they believe it cannot replace the traditional design method. The practitioners indicated that more than 50% of their recently hired graduates The practitioners indicated that more than 50% of their recently hired graduates had adequate training and believed schools preparation of students is 'fair'. But educators and students rated it fair tending toward poor and ACADIA members rated it above fair tending toward well. Also, the majority of the respondents are willing to take continuing computer courses but as it was indicated by educators most of the schools are not offering such courses. |
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| Item Description: | Vita. "Major Subject: Architecture". |
| Physical Description: | xiv, 185 leaves : illustrations ; 28 cm. Issued also on microfiche from University Microfilms Inc. |
| Bibliography: | Includes bibliographical references: pages 95-99. |