Knowledge of Computer Technology in Computer-Aided Design for Garment Pattern-making in Colleges of Education in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined knowledge of CAD software for garment pattern-making in Colleges of Education in Delta State, Nigeria, and the extent to which gender influences such knowledge. Three research questions and one hypothesis guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population comprised 91 students in the Colleges of Education in Delta State in the year 2019. Since the population size was small enough to be fully examined, a census approach was used, ensuring that every member of the population was included in the study. The research instrument used was a validated questionnaire, with a reliability coefficient of 0.83. Mean and standard deviation were used to analyze the research questions, while an independent samples t-test was conducted to test the hypothesis at a 0.05 level of significance. The finding of the study revealed that students have a high level of knowledge in CAD for garment pattern-making. Male and female students performed highly, particularly in CAD awareness and pattern printing. There was a significant difference between male and female students' knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) software for garment pattern-making in Colleges of Education in Delta State, Nigeria, with male slightly outperforming their female counterparts. The study recommended amongst others that institutions should incorporate more compulsory hands-on training sessions and workshops focusing on advanced CAD skills, such as 3D CAD awareness, measurement input, and command execution.