Impact of AutoCAD among Engineering and Architecture Students in Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte

Abstract

Computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) technology, particularly AutoCAD, has transformed design and technical documentation by automating procedures that formerly required manual drafting. This study explores the impact of AutoCAD on engineering and architecture students at the Saint Joseph Institute of Technology in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte. The main objectives are to gather students' perspectives on the challenges and benefits of using AutoCAD, identify the number of students experiencing difficulties, and assess how AutoCAD helps prepare students for their future professions. Using a survey research design with a Google Form, data was collected from 30 participants, comprising 15 engineering and 15 architecture students. The questionnaire consisted of closed-ended questions addressing the impact of AutoCAD on learning outcomes, perceptions, and overall satisfaction with the program. The findings reveal that the majority (96%) of participants reported a positive impact from utilizing AutoCAD, highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing technical skills, improving design understanding, and streamlining drafting and modeling processes. Moreover, AutoCAD facilitated accurate and detailed drawings, promoting better visualization and communication of ideas. Respondents expressed that AutoCAD integration into the curriculum provided valuable hands-on training and prepared them for the industry's demands. While most students found AutoCAD beneficial, a smaller proportion (70%) encountered difficulties with the software, particularly those who were less computer literate or lacked skilled faculty support. Nonetheless, the study emphasizes the importance of AutoCAD's role in developing design creativity among students in engineering and architecture programs. In conclusion, this research demonstrates the significant impact of AutoCAD on the engineering and architecture students of Saint Joseph Institute of Technology, Butuan City. The software enhances technical proficiency and fosters design creativity, contributing to a comprehensive and practical learning experience. The study's findings shed light on the importance of efficient faculty support and proper training to fully harness the potential of AutoCAD in education. As AutoCAD remains an indispensable tool in the modern design industry, its successful integration into the curriculum is essential for preparing students for their future professions.