Cognitive load management and architectural design outcomes

Abstract

The architectural design is a process of solving multifaceted, ill-defined problems, requiring a constant dialog between internal representations (resulting of cognitive processes) and external representations based on the use of different media. This highly interactive process is very demanding on working memory and cognitive resources. In this study, we analyzed the relationship between the way in which designers manage their cognitive load during the architectural design process and the creativity of their design outcomes. We quantitatively measured cognitive load by asking 36 architecture students to perform a secondary task while using three common design media (i.e., hand sketches, physical models, and SketchUp CAD software). The students' designs were then qualitatively assessed by eight expert raters, all of them were architects (four teachers and four professionals). Results did not reveal any significant relationship between cognitive load management and design outcome creativity for any of the three design media.