The effect of CAD on architecture students' creativity and enthusiasm

Developing design creativity in the school of architecture is generally regarded as the most crucial goal of architectural educators. The methods and media for achieving this goal usually present unique challenges and opportunities during the students’ developmental processes. The study examines the effect of Computer Aided Design (CAD) applications on aspects of students’ creativity. A survey of 190 students of covenant University in Ota, Nigeria was conducted and analysed using descriptive statistics. In-depth interviews of 15 students and 10 lecturers were also conducted to buttress the results of the quantitative data analysis. The study found that architecture students do not perceive CAD applications as having potential to make them lazy in design. Furthermore, student’s ability to develop conceptual patterns, creative forms and novel ideas was found to be enhanced by the use of CAD. Most of the respondents (77.8%) agree that CAD enhances creativity. Lack of design drive and enthusiasm flourish among the undergraduate students because the requirement to present design solutions in manual drafting is perceived as burdensome and a waste of time. It is recommended that consideration by the educators and professional bodies be given towards the use of approved CAD applications in design studio classes for the purpose of developing creativity and enthusiasm in the student