**New** Differential Tuition Proposal for 2007-2008
Since the fall of 2002, the
Department of Architecture (DAR) has required all students entering 200
level studios and continuing throughout the BSAS degree, to be a part of
a computer program known as e3 (pronounced 'E-Three').
stands for Electronic Educational Environment. The motivation behind
this program was to provide all DAR students with access to the
technology they will need to succeed in the University environment and
in the workplace. e3 isn't just about laptops, it's about using
available technology to learn, teach and eventually do.
The Need for Computers in Architecture
The diversity of computer technologies architects must master has
expanded dramatically in recent years. In the late 1980s when architects
first adopted computer-aided drafting, a simple toolset was sufficient.
Most schools responded by offering a CAD drafting course, where the
tools were easily mastered in a semester of specialized study.
In a mere decade and a half the range of technologies has exploded. In
order to prepare for practice, students must learn computer-aided
drafting, computer-aided model-building, photorealistic rendering, rapid
prototyping, energy and lighting simulation and analysis, computer-aided
collaboration and data management, parametric design, animation and
video editing, image editing and presentation layout, and website
design. The software and methods involved are complex and interrelated,
and it is no longer possible to segregate the computer curriculum.
Students must seamlessly integrate computer knowledge with the rest of
their architectural knowledge, and hone these skills throughout their
education.
Without these skills it is virtually impossible to participate in
architectural practice today. Computer technology is reshaping the
profession at a deep level, causing architects to change centuries-old
methods of design, documentation and construction. The influence and
potential of computers is so central that students’ computer skills are
a major factor determining opportunities for employment after
graduation. Where once computer skill was a specialty, now it is a
universal prerequisite, and students compete for the best jobs by
demonstrating greater degrees of technological savvy.
Provides Necessary Technology
has provided laptop computers, preloaded with the software you will need
in the course of your studies. There is a per-semester fee that covers
the hardware, software, insurance and support, which eliminates many of
the headaches involved in purchasing and maintaining a computer. Each
computer contains wireless networking, allowing you to be networked from
anywhere within the AUP building and many other places on campus as
well.
Evolves
After using this technology for a few years, the faculty are
recommending a move to desktop computers in the fall of 2006 to better
meet the requirements of the powerful software used in the curriculum.
We are currently in the process of getting approval for a student
supported differential tuition payment plan to cover the costs of the
program, and to add many improvements as well. This will replace the
per-semester fee, and for most students, will lower the cost for the
program, while providing increased power and services.
Thinking of Buying a Computer?
With SARUP's new program, the hassles of worrying about which computer
to buy, what software would meet all your needs and who's going to help
with your questions, is over. We are proud to bring you the latest in
educational technology.
is DAR's solution to the many computer problems students are faced with
every day.
Note that this program is currently still under development, and the information posted here is the most accurate we have at the moment, but is not set in stone. We reserve the right to change any of the content when required.
You can direct technical questions
to
Joseph Fieber, Computing Services Manager:
jpfieber@uwm.edu, 414-229-3849
or Advising questions to
Tammy Taylor, Pre-Architecture Advisor:
ttaylor@uwm.edu, 414-229-4015