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Conclusion

There are both advantages and disadvantages to this teaching method. It has subtle limitations that we must understand in order to anticipate and avoid error. Nevertheless, it is technically simple and truly helps students to apprehend quickly the most remarkable aspect of Song construction, namely its systematized nature. Moreover, it generates enthusiasm among our students.

We have compiled the model kit and the supporting materials into a CD-ROM for limited distribution and trial. These are still under development, and we intend to continue work in the following directions.

First, we will make more parts. The present kit of thirty-eight primitives is limited. We will construct more primitives, particularly of the bracket sets, to make the kit more complete.

Second, we will implement customized commands for parametric design. That is, allow the user to input values for parameters like column height. The model kit will then produce modified instances accordingly. Currently, the commands are optimized for a single building; implementing parametric commands will allow users to produce many variations with equal ease.

Third, we will provide more complete on-line supporting materials. Students have made many suggestions for improvement in this area. In addition, we plan to produce a bilingual (Chinese-English) version of the materials and reorganize them in Macromind Director.

Readers will find current information on this project on our department's web page (URL: http://www.arch.cuhk.hk). We welcome all comments and suggestions.

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