Visual Data Browsing in the Design Process: Interior Architecture Students Approaches to the Use of Social Networking Platforms

This study examines the visual data browsing approaches of interior architecture students through social networking platforms (SNP) in the design process. Based on the characteristics of the research group, the study aims to reveal the contributions of SNP to interior architecture education and the emerging trends in this context. Within this aim, a total of 298 students from the Interior Architecture and Environmental Design Departments of Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University and Hacettepe University participated in the study. A questionnaire including 28 questions was used to assess the use of SNP during the design process, usage habits, preferred platforms, and data collection methods. The findings indicate that interior architecture students actively use SNP in the design process for purposes such as design innovations, seeing different design approaches, getting inspiration or learning new techniques. It has been determined that as the level of education differs, differences may occur in the students' approaches to bringing together visuals and analysing existing designs better to create original designs. It was determined that students generally use SNP for professional projects and design content, and that weekly and daily use is common. It has been observed that 3rd grade students benefit from SNP more than students in other educational levels. No significant differences were found between universities; Pinterest was found to be the most preferred platform. Despite the limited negative effects of SNP, such as distractions and reliability issues, it was concluded that their conscious and balanced use, contributes academically and professionally to the design education process.