Introducing a Building Code Calculator App as an Educational Tool

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Introducing a Building Code Calculator App as an Educational Tool
Language: English
Authors: Hebatalla Nazmy (ORCID 0000-0001-8560-0715), Merida Valentin-Mendez (ORCID 0009-0001-0806-3087)
Source: Journal of Educational Technology Systems. 2025 54(2):506-531.
Availability: SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: https://sagepub.com
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 26
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Building Design, Design Requirements, Interior Design, Handheld Devices, Computer Oriented Programs, Computation, Cognitive Processes, Difficulty Level, Biofeedback, Stress Variables, Anxiety, Student Surveys
DOI: 10.1177/00472395251372638
ISSN: 0047-2395
1541-3810
Abstract: Knowledge of building code is required for most building design licenses. However, designers often find the process confusing and overwhelming. The cognitive load theory suggests dividing information between visual and verbal formats reduces working memory burden, while concept mapping and mobile apps enhance learning. This study tests the usefulness of the Building Code Calculator; a new mobile application designed to improve building code knowledge and reduce cognitive load in design education. This prototype provides a visual structural knowledge guide, and it incorporates calculation features associated with the rationale behind the calculations. Senior interior design students performed building code tasks using conventional methods and the app. Stress levels were measured using galvanic skin response, heart rate monitoring, brain oxygenation, and survey responses. The findings suggest that the Building Code App effectively accelerates task completion while simultaneously reducing students' stress levels.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1487865
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Knowledge of building code is required for most building design licenses. However, designers often find the process confusing and overwhelming. The cognitive load theory suggests dividing information between visual and verbal formats reduces working memory burden, while concept mapping and mobile apps enhance learning. This study tests the usefulness of the Building Code Calculator; a new mobile application designed to improve building code knowledge and reduce cognitive load in design education. This prototype provides a visual structural knowledge guide, and it incorporates calculation features associated with the rationale behind the calculations. Senior interior design students performed building code tasks using conventional methods and the app. Stress levels were measured using galvanic skin response, heart rate monitoring, brain oxygenation, and survey responses. The findings suggest that the Building Code App effectively accelerates task completion while simultaneously reducing students' stress levels.
ISSN:0047-2395
1541-3810
DOI:10.1177/00472395251372638