An investigation into students’ attitudes and perceptions towards using AI tools in design education

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools have rapidly become prevalent within design education. Students’ attitudes and perceptions about these tools inform their use in their studies and future careers. Ultimately, as educators, we want students to learn how to think like designers and utilise these tools professionally and responsibly. This research explores the interconnection of AI and design education focusing on the attitudes of undergraduate and postgraduate students in the Design and Creative Arts department of a UK university. Through the implementation of online surveys, the study evaluates students' perceptions of AI tools, such as ChatGPT, and their trust in AI technology and societal sources during design tasks. The findings indicate that students regard AI tools as valuable collaborators, fostering confidence in their work and leading to recommendations among peers. Nonetheless, students recognise the irreplaceability of collaboration with fellow students. Notably, all students believe that AI tools have a place in the modern design world. This improved understanding of how students perceive these AI tools allows educators to integrate them into educational programmes that better influence emerging designers’ professional identities and practices in contemporary UK society.

Presented at The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education Conference 2024, Stoke-on-Trent, 12 June.