An Inquiry into Computers in Design: Attitudes before- Attitudes After

This paper reports on the findings of an empirical investigation into the use of the computer as the only design medium. A group of students took part in an experiment to design a studio for a graphic designer on the computer. Student attitudes towards the design process were assessed at two conditions: before using the computer and after using the computer. Prior to the experiment a literature search was carried out to explore some widely researched design issues such as sketching, design creativity, and computer-aided design. Consequently a number of design variables were identified, developed and then empirically tested. Data collection methods included questionnaires and observations. Statistical analysis of the responses confirms that using the computer has produced a statistically significant difference in attitudes to the design process variables