Computers in Architectural Education

Throughout Europe there is a rapidly growing volume of initiatives towards integrating computer aids within all aspects of education. In architectural education, the support offered by these initiatives presents a double-edged sword. On the one hand it is gratifying to see the work of almost two decades of CAAD research bearing fruit and the concepts gaining recognition by the profession. On the other hand the resulting pressures on the few individuals with the necessary knowledge to implement the teaching will stretch many to breaking point. Where resources are so limited it is crucial to clarify the needs and objectives and, thereby, more effectively direct resources. These needs will change over time and, in the world of computers, the means are also changing rapidly as hardware and software improves. This paper therefore outlines a scenario which I believe is relevant at this point in time but the background is constantly changing and I offer no apologies for any shift in emphasis since my last presentation of this topic in 1983