Computer aided design (CAD) Technology versus students’ learning in architectural design pedagogy – a controversial topic review

Since the advancement of information technology and the development of computers in the 1960s, students’ approaches to design education have been affected greatly in recent years. The current situation of using Computer Aided Design (CAD) in architectural practices through the aid of computer systems for visualisation presentation, communication, and information processing purposes define the future of architectural education in universities and graduates employment opportunities into small to mid-sized companies. Though several architectural schools have adopted these changes in architectural education by making it part of their curriculum to enhance CAD pedagogy skills. However, a large number of studio educators still find it impractical in the design process. This paper examines the studies related to the augments among architectural studio educators regarding CAD utilisation in architectural design studio, as well as its effects on students’ learning. The challenges, controversies, divergent views and best practices are presented. Even though, an in-depth enquiring to adopt a more dynamic approach to addressing the future field of architectural design education that has been engulfed by digital technologies and its developments is essential.