framework for the implementation of a virtual design studio model in ...

improving quality and effectiveness of the building design process. The
advancement of technology encourages the growth in the use and
application of computer in design education. The use of computers in
design is not only advantageous to assisting the architect‟s basic needs,
but also further to become instrumental for the architecture process.
Computers are becoming an effective mechanism for designers and
architects in relation to the use of traditional media. The availability of
the Internet and advanced networking channels encourages the
exchange of correspondence between architects. Today it is difficult to
imagine an arсhitесtural practice that is not making use of this new
medium. Kubicki et al 155 states that the use of IT in architecture design
education has tremendously increased in the past decade. They further
underline its importance in facilitating team-work and collaboration. The
importance of the use of computers in architecture practice has become
essential in its success. Hence, computers and advanced CAD
technologies facilitate the design of complex modern buildings and VDS
tools facilitate communication among project members due to the
advances of communication tools.
Mark et al 156 state that the use of computers in design and design
education will exceed the capacity of being only a medium to play a
more important role. Computers will be used as a significant part of the
process that could be utilised as a Knowledge Integration Tool, a
Decision Support Tool, and Design Tool. Therefore, viewing IT as an
effective tool for arсhitесtural design education that requires the
developing of new methodologies and techniques to realise the purpose
to which the utilisation of IT can be put in arсhitесtural design education.
Hence, this study attempts to investigate this objective by developing a
framework for effective integration of VDS in arсhitесtural design
education. This framework can assist in developing complex skills
154 Reffat, R. (2006). Developments of e-learning in design and architectural education. Muscat, Oman.
155 Kubicki, S., Bignon, J., Leclercq, P. (2008). ‘Cooperative Digital Studio IT-Supported Cooperation for
AEC Students’. International Conference on Information Technology in Construction. Santiago, Chile.
156 Mark, E. et al (2001). ‘The Ideal Computer Curriculum’, the 19th ECAADE-conference (ECAADE -
Education for Computer Aided Architectural Design in Europe). Helsinki, Finland, p168-175.
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