The ongoing collaboration with generative AI to design X
Assessment Overview: Students establish self-directed design projects that align with their interest area knowing that they must in some capacity use generative AI tools. Generative AI tools were selected based on the project requirements and individuals determine when, and how they are used e.g., ideation, development or implementation. The collaborative design process and outcome is captured through a critical journal which contains insights into the experience of working with generative AI, as well as the role AI played in the project process. A recorded oral presentation captures the final design outcomes. The subsequent project focussed on the Responsible use of AI.
Unit Context: This 8-week studio project ran across two units: MDC5310 Masters of Interaction Design and COL3002 Collaborative Design Studio 5.
Learning Objectives: Deliver a comprehensive learning experience by immersing students in both theoretical concepts and practical applications of designing with generative AI tools. Familiarise them with generative AI tools to enhance their comprehension of the potential advantages, challenges, and broader impact on design. Explore the upcoming shifts in design practices and instil an understanding of the considerations behind employing AI, addressing the questions of if, why, when, where, and how they might integrate these tools in future projects. Emphasise the significance of documenting AI's role and cultivating methods to provide evidence of authorship in the design process.
How is task & AI structured/scaffolded: We introduced a couple of generative AI tools and directories in class. Students do quick experiments within groups, then share and critique their experience. As students are using different tools to one another our class discussions focus on the broader issues related to generative AI.
How were responsible use and ethical issues addressed: The experimental and speculative project permitted students to learn through practice. They were required to discuss and identify issues related to validity, authorship, bias, etc., and their capacity to apply critical thinking was addressed through discussion and assessment.
What support/guidance was needed for students: The opportunity to try new things without being reprimanded. Class discussions encouraged students to view the experience and results from various perspectives critically.
Which AI tools & why: Unspecified because potentially relevant tools emerge every day. This also allowed students to discover tools and share their insights with the entire group. This approach encouraged students to work through uncertainty with caution and curiosity.
Things that worked well:
Documentation clearly evidences who did what
Made ‘tangible’ the power & dangers of AI
Provided the context to discuss data, ethics etc.
Things that need improvement:
Supporting students to explore beyond ChatGPT.
Encourage students to understand, verify, and edit all results fully.
Things to consider when adapting to your context: Generative AI tools could easily be restricted to a part of the design process. Typically we observed students using the tools in the ideation phase. However, the student example ‘Beyond the Glow’ demonstrates how it might be used for implementation.
Marking Criteria
In this assessment, you can use generative artificial intelligence (AI) to assist you in any way. Any use of generative AI must be appropriately acknowledged (see Learn HQ).
Generative AI integration in Design
Contextual Relevance and Ethical Considerations
Critical Journaling and Reflection
Contextual Portfolio
Collaboration and visible integration of human and non-human feedback
Final Presentation
Student Examples
Student Example: Lara Kirkwood
Through the format of a children's picture book, Beyond the Glow is an allegory exploring the complex issue of technological development, occurring at the expense of individual wellbeing and social connection. The story follows a young rabbit who learns to venture beyond the comforting and alluring light of her home to discover the wonders of the forest and the creatures around her, conveying a message that can be interpreted in many ways. With the narrative and illustrations designed in collaboration with emerging generative AI technology (including ChatGPT and Gencraft), Beyond the Glow aims to highlight the importance of balance, where technology can be helpful only when harnessed responsibly.
“Before the start of the semester, 57% of the students reported not knowing what generative AI was despite all the students identifying that they had used Generative AI tools. ”
