framework for the implementation of a virtual design studio model in ...

environment in this university is not disparately different from that of the
UAEU.
� Focus Group
The focus group methodology was conducted at the exploratory survey
in stage one. The aim is to identify students' perspectives of the current
teaching and learning practices in the design courses offered in the
architecture school of the UAEU and to evaluate the students‟
perceptions of the first proposed VDS. The aim of this investigation was
initially to gain a preliminary understanding of the difficulties,
approaches, attitudes, perceptions, and motivation related to the
learning of design in architecture schools. Secondly, the investigation
was designed to assess the extent to which the students would be
interested in the use of sophisticated technology in the teaching and
learning environment of the UAE architecture education schools in order
to achieve effective learning. Finally, the aim was to investigate
students‟ perception towards the developed VDS after a short trial. The
study was conducted in the UAEU because it is the largest university in
the UAE, and because other universities that house an architectural
department in the UAE follow a similar educational system. The study
revealed students‟ interest and motivation towards using technology
such as visualisation and 3D in their learning. The students added that
the use of visual aids assisted their learning and understanding and
made learning more fun.
� Observations
As part of this research and the data collection the researcher was
involved as an external member researcher. It has been shown that
observations create rigour in a study when combined with other
research, thus providing depth as well as enhancing consistency and
validity. 270 The researcher spent one semester in 2005 closely observing
the teaching and learning processes in the Department of Architecture in
270 Brewer, J., Hunter, A. (1989). Multimethod research: a synthesis of styles. John Brewer, Albert
Hunter. London: Newbury Park.
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