COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN (CAD) IN ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PRIVATE AND PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA

Purpose: The rise of computer-aided design (CAD) has revolutionised architectural education, driving a shift from traditional drafting techniques to digital design processes. This technological advancement has made CAD an integral part of architectural training, reshaping how students conceptualise and develop design solutions. This study aims to explore CAD proficiency and deployment levels among postgraduate architecture students of public and private Universities.

Design/methodology/approach: This study employs quantitative approaches through the survey method to explore the proficiency and deployment levels of computer-aided design (CAD) tools in architectural studio design education across four ARCON (Architects Registration Council of Nigeria)- accredited public and private universities in Southwest Nigeria. A total of 407 postgraduate architecture students participated, with Caleb University contributing the largest share (38.3%), followed by University of Lagos (26.0%), Bell University (23.8%), and Obafemi Awolowo University (11.8%).

Findings: The findings reveal that AutoCAD is the most widely known CAD tool, with high familiarity among students at the University of Lagos (81.9%), Obafemi Awolowo University (97.9%), and Bell University (94.2%). However, proficiency levels differ significantly, with only 54.7% of Lagos students and 75% of Obafemi Awolowo students reporting a strong command. Revit is also well-known, particularly at Caleb University (92.9%), though mastery remains uneven.

Research limitations/Implications: This study is limited to randomly selecting ARCON-accredited, Private and Public Universities within the southwestern states out of six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The contribution to knowledge is that this study established the influence of CAD proficiency level and the early deployment of studio design.

Practical implications: The study underscores the urgent need for enhanced investment in CAD infrastructure and training to ensure all students, regardless of institution, acquire the necessary digital design skills for modern architectural practice.