DIGITAL TOOLS IN THE PROCESS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION AS A METHOD OF STUDYING AND PROTECTING ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE

The article presents the issue of the implementation and popularisation of the use of digital tools in practical classes focusing on the conservation of historic buildings for architecture students.Design/methodology/approach: The study investigating the role of digital tools and the necessity of their implementation and expanded application in the field of architectural conservation education was conducted at the Faculty of Architecture of the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice, as well as at selected technical universities in Poland and abroad.The research methodology included questionnaire-based surveys directed at architecture students and interviews with staff from the faculties.Findings: The research indicates that the implementation of practical classes in the form of workshops is crucial, as it has a number of benefits.The implementation of such workshops provides an opportunity to develop and enrich the curriculum and encourage the student in conservation research and preservation of historical monument.Research limitations/implications: Research conducted at higher education institutions in the Faculties of Architecture in Poland has shown that relatively few academic units include practical training in the use of digital tools as part of their curricula.Such courses are more commonly found in faculties that are integrated with civil engineering, where greater opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange exist.In contrast, the findings from foreign universities are more encouraging.Practical classes involving digital tools are conducted systematically and have yielded remarkable results throughout the didactic process.Practical implications: The article may serve as a point of reference for the development of didactic strategies in architectural education and for determining the specific competencies and support students require in the course of architectural education.Social implications: The benefits of young architects' ability to use digital tools influence their future perspectives in the profession.In addition, education in the use of these tools contributes to the preservation of architectural heritage, which is a common cultural good.Originality/value: The article highlights the critical role of digital tools within architectural education, considering both the student and institutional perspectives.Manuscript fills the gap in the analysis of the use of digital tools in practical classes in the process of architectural education.