Design Education: a Methodology for Incorporating Computer Technology into the Design Curriculum

Computer hardware capabilities have dramatically increased over the past ten years in terms of processing power and graphic capability. Costs have decreased to the point where educational institutions can now afford to buy such systems. Unfortunately, research exploring methods to aid educators in incorporating computer technology into the design curriculum has not kept up at the same rate. This paper examines through a comparative analysis two methodologies that integrate computer technology into the design environment. 3-Dimensional representation and abstract /volumetric form are used to explore composition as a tool to aid the designer in developing alternative design solutions. Specially designed interactive software is used to aid the student in evaluating a design by converting abstract form into realistic imagery. The results of the research indicate that the most effective way to teach students to design using computers is by reinforcing the fundamentals of design theory while introducing a palate of graphic commands. With the addition of specialized software, abstract form can be easily replaced for realistic imagery. The results of this study strongly suggest that the integration of an evolving design theory, coupled with the power of computer technology not only encourages but fosters the creative thinking process by providing the designer more opportunity to evaluate, revise and incorporate new ideas into a design, emphasizing abstract representation.