Abstract
Innovations in computer technology in the last decade have provided us with new methods of communication and collaboration. Some of the major developments are the Internet, intranets, and the extranets. Collaborative learning, virtual discussion forums and design studios are outcomes of the influence of the Internet on architecture education. This new means of communication and collaboration is bridging the gap between various institutions, practitioners, and students. This research is focused upon testing the possibility of developing a Web-based cost estimation system and using it in architecture design studios. It is aimed at determining students' desire in having such a tool in their design studios. As a first step toward achieving these objectives a Web-based cost estimation system has been developed. This software has been developed using Active Server Pages (ASP), Microsoft Access database, Structured Query Language (SQL) and the Internet technology. In order to find students' inclination toward cost and their views on incorporating a Web-based cost estimation system as part of the design studios, a group of students were asked to use the system and answer a questionnaire. After analyzing the results of the questionnaire it was observed that the students have a great interest in using the system while working on their designs.
Darapureddy, K.S. Kiran (2001). Web integrated cost estimation system in architecture education. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /ETD -TAMU -2001 -THESIS -D373.