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

essentiality of the use of educational goal as the core of the educational
process.
Many technological and digital tools have been introduced into
architecture design education since 1990. Different forms of computer
aided technologies have been initiated such as Computer Aided
Architectural Design (CAAD) or Computer Aided Design (CAD). These
technologies have been accordingly utilised in many architectural
departments all around the world. O‟Leary 24 asserts that advances in
Internet and computer technologies facilitated the use of Virtual Reality
Modelling Language (VRML) which in turn facilitated the simulation of
processes in architectural practice. However, researchers 25 argue that
the use of IT and digital media are not fully exploited to reshape
architectural design education.
Computer and electronic technologies have advanced tremendously in
the second half of the 20th century. The advent of Computer Automated
Learning Environment (CAVE) and Collaborative Virtual Environments
(CVE) in design education has been widely documented. 26 The nature
and practices of architecture and architecture education have been
profoundly impacted by these advances. Roy et al 27 emphasise the
effectiveness of integrating the CAVE technology in the University of
Illinois at Chicago where the first CAVE was initiated. Other examples
for using CAVE in design education include Pennsylvania State
University, Indiana University, the University College London and the
University of Reading 28 . The list also includes the UAEU and King
Abdualla University of science and technology in Saudi Arabia. These
modern-day technologies have become an integral part of science. This
integration has important implications for academic teaching of
24
O'Leary, T. (1997). ‘On-Line learning environment in architectural and construction education’. The
Australian Society for Computers in Learning in Tertiary Education ASCILIT. Australia.
25
Senyapili, B. & Basa, Y. (2006). op.cit. p275
26
Abbot L. el al, (1996). Breaking educational and research barriers with 3D visualisation CAVE
technology. The Virginia Tech Research Division.
27
Roy, T. M., Cruz-Niera, C., DeFanti, T. A., (1994). ‘Cosmic worm in the CAVE: steering a high
performance computing application from a virtual environment’ especial issue on Networks and Virtual
Environments of Presence: Teleoperators and Virtual Environments. MIT Press.
28
Ibid. p23.
15