Architecture Students’ Smartphone Use in Design Studio I

Abstract

The smartphone use is increasing at an unprecedented pace all around the world. Researchers try to reveal its influence on people, particularly the students. The present qualitative research study aims to enlighten smartphone influence on architecture students in Design Studio I (DS I) in an educational perspective. One hundred and thirty-three architecture students coming from different nations attended the present study. The students were in their second semester of architecture department. They answered two open-ended questions. Data is analyzed through content analysis. Except for few applications variation in nationality did not manifest to a significant difference. Students’ smartphone use reasons emerged in eight categories, while their self-critics emerged in three categories, and finally recommendations for efficient use of the smartphone in six. Students use the smartphone both for academic and non-academic reasons. Students’ success of assignments in the studio I course depends on both academic and nonacademic smartphone uses. Students use the smartphones frequently and would like to use more often. Students would like to use their smartphones to access on-point information, easily, and rapidly without putting in much effort. Students urged actions from their teachers and department managers accordingly, but criticize their use as well. The students may not be aware of the critical targets of DS I. Students need guidance and motivation while using smartphones for DS I to fulfill targets. Recommendations for smartphone use were presented.