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An evaluation study on the effectiveness of the architectural technology program in the Singapore Polytechnic
Author
Chan, Choy Ling
Supervisor
Chen, Ai Yen
Abstract
This is an evaluation study on the effectiveness of the architectural technology program conducted by an action researcher in the Singapore Polytechnic. Three cohorts of the three-year diploma program for architectural technologists have been studied. The architectural technologists are being prepared to assist architects in design conceptualization and design development with compliances to local (Singapore) statutory requirements and for construction purposes.
The Final Year Project is significant and is used as the summative evaluation of the program. The curriculum is sequentially organized so that the early years of the training provide the foundation for the essential knowledge, skills and values for integrating design and technology. An integrated project-based learning approach is used for the three-year program whereby the knowledge and skills gained each year are applied to an annual project.
The research method used in the evaluation is naturalistic and participatory as the researcher is able to monitor and evaluate three cohorts of Final Year students' performance. The data collected is diverse and extensive to include portfolios reviews, interviews, dialogues, surveys, observations and reflections of direct experience over a five-year period (1998-2003).
The results of the evaluation study show that the architectural technology program has successfully trained architectural technologists for the current architectural practice. This is because the curriculum has been changed to meet the needs of the profession and global demands by the review of literature and a scan of the environment. Graduates of the Program are also able to obtain advanced standing when applying to study in professional architectural programs overseas. However, there is room for improvement in aspects relating to design sensitivity and design integration. The architectural technologist should also be better equipped with creativity and problem solving skills.
Finally, the Program has potentials to be an excellent service provider. It should continue to respond to the rapid global changes and technological development and evolve staying competitive in the education arena.
The Final Year Project is significant and is used as the summative evaluation of the program. The curriculum is sequentially organized so that the early years of the training provide the foundation for the essential knowledge, skills and values for integrating design and technology. An integrated project-based learning approach is used for the three-year program whereby the knowledge and skills gained each year are applied to an annual project.
The research method used in the evaluation is naturalistic and participatory as the researcher is able to monitor and evaluate three cohorts of Final Year students' performance. The data collected is diverse and extensive to include portfolios reviews, interviews, dialogues, surveys, observations and reflections of direct experience over a five-year period (1998-2003).
The results of the evaluation study show that the architectural technology program has successfully trained architectural technologists for the current architectural practice. This is because the curriculum has been changed to meet the needs of the profession and global demands by the review of literature and a scan of the environment. Graduates of the Program are also able to obtain advanced standing when applying to study in professional architectural programs overseas. However, there is room for improvement in aspects relating to design sensitivity and design integration. The architectural technologist should also be better equipped with creativity and problem solving skills.
Finally, the Program has potentials to be an excellent service provider. It should continue to respond to the rapid global changes and technological development and evolve staying competitive in the education arena.
Date Issued
2003
Call Number
NA2258.S55 Cha
Date Submitted
2003