Online Instructional Material for Computer Aided Garment Pattern Making Training in Colleges: A Case Study of Zimbabwe

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop an online instructional material for computer aided (CAD) pattern making training in Zimbabwe Polytechnics. The study adopted an experimental design to develop the material. The study identified that CorelDraw; open access software, can be used for the development of basic block patterns. Through a screencast-o-matric tool and VSDC Video Editor, a screen cast was developed to show the progression of size 12 straight skirt block development on the computer screen. The instructional material was tested to thirty Fashion Design students and five pattern making instructors. Findings from the test suggest that majority of the students were able to follow step by step screen casts to develop the skirt block. It was concluded that screen-castscan serve as instructional materials to expose student to CADpattern making and can help instructors change face to face instruction from tradition demonstration lectures to more constructivist learning practices in practically based disciplines like Fashion Design. The authors argue that this study can assist instructors, who have challenges of acquiring subject specific educational software, with instructions on how to make instructional materials like screen casts for teaching CAD concept susing affordable and alternative software such as CorelDraw