| The purpose of this study was to develop a laboratory core curriculum delivery model for a ninety credit post-secondary architectural technology program. This laboratory core is defined as the hand-drafting and computer-drafting courses that a learner would take to gain entry level job skill in detailing architectural construction documents. The study was organized into three phases: (1) planning, (2) delivery, and (3) evaluation.;The delivery phase of the study organized content by: domain, frequency of use, and purpose. Tasks were developed into performance objectives that established standards and learner outcome. A 29-unit delivery model was developed around the performance objectives which addressed drafting and technology skills. The model contains 1,500 architectural illustrations, cut-out models, and was written using an architectural font style. Three residential and three light commercial projects were designed to be used as examples throughout the learning package.;The model was evaluated by two teams: the first was a faculty group using the material with students in a lab experience, the second evaluation was by a group of instructors who reviewed the model for content and delivery. The field test was conducted using post-secondary architectural programs with over 200 students. Evaluators were asked to determine: the relevance of the model, training in problem solving, carryover learning in lab projects, the value of cut-out models, the quality of graphics, and overall effectiveness of the model. Based upon the response by the two groups of evaluators, the training model was judged to be effective for training architectural technicians.;The planning phase of research consisted of a literature and curriculum review of technical architectural training and a synthesis of data. Research resulted in a list of tasks that defined the job skills required to enter architecture. Tasks were validated by forming peer committees to review the data. The survey audience was divided into two groups: (1) college architectural staff, and (2) architects and technicians employed in the profession. The survey resulted in a task list that defined the job description of an architectural technician. |
