Response of Student to the Introduction of CAD in Design Education

Abstract

Recently, the standard drafting system has changed from 2D-CAD (2-Dimensional Computer aided Design) to 3D-CAD in industries and educational institutes. Manual drafting may be instructive for beginners, therefore it is taught in most mechanical engineering courses before students are introduced to CAD. While 2D-CAD is roughly analogous to manual drafting, 3D-CAD requires both a different skill set and a contrasting way of thinking. The authors survey how the senior students evaluate manual drafting exercises and then 3D-CAD drafting exercises. From the results of the questionnaire survey, it was found that while manual drafting can be time consuming and tedious, the thought process allowed for a better understanding of drafting.