Title: ICT and the Architecture studio learning

Author: Ar. Anupama Chawla

B.Arch, M.Arch (Architecture Pedagogy)

Abstract:
Designing by students in an architecture studio is by and large due to the hard work and inspiration of a
group of motivated academicians who broaden the vision of the students and try to bring out their
creative talents by introspection and various studio exercises. A current trend amongst the students is
the use of ICT (Information and Communication Technology), particularly the internet; to gather
information, news, literature, Facts, pictorial, graphic and photographed imagery etc. to enhance their
knowledge. The ease of operation and the excitement of instant impactful communication has made
many people, a slave of this technology. However, many commercial and professional fields have turned
this very factor to their advantage and have improved their services successfully. Architecture Practice is
also on the threshold of a game changer position. But architecture education is still floundering in the
deluge of the ICT. To assess the impact of this technological intrusion into the architectural students’
academic lives and to determine the factors that impact the implementation and use of ICT; in the
design and learning of students involved in the Studio design process; is the aim and purpose of this
research paper.
In a random sampling study conducted by the author across 2 different colleges of architecture,
amongst the first year students of architecture, in New Delhi; their approach to ICT and the learning so
impacted was studied qualitatively. Research method was personal interviews, Likert scale assessment
and faculty’s assessment of the students’ work in studio. The students’ attitude to the use of ICT and its
impact on their innovation and creativity, during studio work were the main objectives of the research.
Results across both schools of architecture (Private and Public) was generally, that Information and
Communication Technology can be a powerful tool in all learning domains of Architecture Education
including design studios, if implemented and harnessed properly. A Topic for further research could be
whether the incorporation of ICT in the Design Studio has really brought the current educational model
closer to the professional sphere.

Keywords: Information and communication Technology, Architecture Studio, design pedagogy, Design
Learning, Innovation and creativity