Effects of 3DS MAX Software on Creative Development and Skills in Art Education at Guizhou University, China

This study investigates the impact of 3DS MAX software on creative development and skills in art education at GUIZHOU UNIVERSITY, China. As digital technologies become increasingly integral to art education, understanding how 3D animation software influences students' creative capabilities and technical skills is crucial for developing practical pedagogical approaches. The research objectives were to (1) explore the role of 3DS MAX in enhancing students' creative abilities,2) evaluate the implementation of 3DS MAX in art curricula, and (3) analyze student feedback on software usage. The study employed a quantitative approach with pretest and post-test design, using a sample of 45 first-year digital media art design students selected through cluster random sampling. Research instruments included lesson plans covering five key areas (Introduction, Modeling, Texturing, Lighting, and Character Rigging), a 30-item multiple-choice test, and a 25-item questionnaire measuring five dimensions of creativity (flexibility, fluency, elaboration, problem-solving, and artistic expression). Statistical analysis utilized descriptive statistics and paired t-tests. Results showed 1) significant improvements in student performance, with mean scores increasing from 75 to 79 and standard deviation decreasing from 6 to 5, and 2) the results indicate that students' mean scores after learning were significantly higher. 3). Student feedback revealed moderate to positive responses (overall mean 2.99, SD=1.42), with the most significant improvements in problem-solving (M=3.09) and elaboration (M=3.26), while artistic expression showed room for enhancement (M=2.83).