The impact of computer aided architectural design programs on conceptual design in an educational context.

摘要

Little research has been undertaken concerning the manner in which students usecomputer aided architectural design (CAAD) programs for conceptual design.The research aim was to explore the potential impact of CAAD programs asconceptual design tools within architectural design methodologies. Therefore,the study aimed to understand the effect of CAAD on self-reflection using athink-aloud method. The findings demonstrate that participants used CAADrepresentations for concept development, information visualisation andpresentation of design strategies. Results from the detailed analysis of designprocess are enlightening, particularly in terms of the cyclical nature ofconceptual design. Furthermore, the use of a micro-detail protocol study withinthis context suggests an appropriate methodology for application in furtherstudy of the architectural design process.