05 Clothing Design/Fabrication/Illustration

05.5 Computer Applications

Polvinen, E. (Ed.). (1996). Computer applications to textile & apparel. ITAA Monograph #8. Monument, CO: ITAA. ISBN 1-885715-04-8, 123 pages, $35.00.

Reviewed by Elizabeth Bye, University of Minnesota

This monograph, Computer Applications to Textile & Apparel, presents a variety of innovative ideas for the integration of computer technology into the Textile/Apparel curriculum. The diverse applications present a positive overview of the potential these technologies have in our field. They include apparel production, clothing design, international studies, merchandising, preservation, product development, textile design, and textile science. Also included is a section with invited submissions about a Fiber, Textiles and Apparel Information Resource on the World Wide Web, building websites, and buying a CAD system. A good list of additional resources was compiled by the editor.
Though there was a wide range in the quality of the papers the content of the monograph as a whole challenges us to seek new technological opportunities for our field. Perhaps a slightly different format style is needed for informational or experience papers versus reported research to create more clarity for the reader.
It was exciting to see computer applications used as a means of teaching skills and gaining knowledge beyond he operation of the tool itself. Quality and content are improved in addition to making tasks easier and quicker. There is a realization that we must foster new ways of communicating and working given the opportunities presented by these new tools. Managing the growing base of information and focusing on specific questions while keeping an eye on global variation will continue to be a challenge.
Faculty working to integrate CAD components into their programs and appraise their progress will want to look at Peggy Goutmann's article on integrated textile design. Charlotte Jirousek's experience in developing an interactive electronic design textbook challenges us to creatively meet the challenging needs of our student populations. Retail planning is brought to life in Frederick Stein's article on Planning with Micro Computers. Questions raised from this collection of papers include many legal ethical considerations such as access to proprietary information and copyright laws. Consideration of student learning styles and the impact of virtual learning in contrast to real, tactile, or visual information is critical.
Support should be given to enhance and expand learning rather than just replace traditional methods. As a profession we also need to form critical concepts, ideas, and questions in response to such a high speed, high volume society. The publication is an important resource for professionals in and out of the Textile and Apparel field to develop an understanding in support of funding for technology in the classroom.