Jim Dawkins

Jim Dawkins is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Interior Architecture and Design at Florida State University. He holds a Master of Architecture and Bachelor of Arts in Design from Clemson University. His career spans 30 years in professional practice, corporate leadership, and academia. As Chair, he oversees department operations and collaborates with university leadership through roles in the College Leadership Team and Academic Leadership Group. His research focuses on design thinking via hand-drawing techniques, the impact of AI on design education, and ethical implications of machine learning in design.

Education:

• Master of Architecture, Clemson University, 1988
• Bachelor of Arts in Design, Clemson University, 1986

Research emphasizes graphic facilitation, cognitive frameworks for sketching skill development, and AI’s role in conceptual design. He explores moral and ethical questions arising from AI integration in design education. Notable works include co-authoring Sketching Interiors at the Speed of Thought and presenting at international conferences on design communication and cognitive methodologies.

Awards:

• 2022 University Teaching Award (Florida State University)

Teaching and Service: He teaches advanced studios and graphic techniques, chairs MFA thesis committees, and co-leads the annual Career Shaping Event. His service includes advising the University’s Internship Council and contributing to academic leadership initiatives.

Labs/Teams: While no specific lab names are mentioned, his role as Chair and researcher positions him centrally within the department’s academic and creative activities.