Integrating AI tools into HE Curriculum Design: Influence on the Design Process, Student Learning Outcomes, and Perceptions of AI in Creative Practices

Abstract

This study investigates the integration of AI tools into higher education curriculum design for interior design, exploring the interplay between manual and digital skills, and the potential impact of AI on design workflows. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, including surveys, first-hand engagement, and literature review, to examine student and practitioner perspectives on AI adoption in interior design education and practice. Findings reveal a high level of interest in AI tools among interior design students, with 89% expressing eagerness to experiment with AI-assisted design. However, the study highlighted a significant knowledge gap, with 62% of respondents reporting limited familiarity with existing AI solutions. The study identifies key applications of AI in interior design, including rapid visualization, concept generation, and material recommendations. Notably, while AI tools show promise in enhancing certain aspects of the design process, they are not perceived as substitutes for core design skills, with only 28% of users reporting significant productivity improvements (Chen & Nguyen, 2023). Challenges in AI adoption include accuracy issues, lack of user control, and difficulty in interpreting complex design requirements. The research concludes that while AI tools have the potential to augment creative processes in interior design, their integration into curricula and professional practice requires careful consideration of human-AI collaboration models. These findings suggest that future development of AI tools for interior design should focus on improving accuracy, user control, and seamless integration with existing design workflows.

Presenters

Carlo Convertini
Senior Lecturer, Year Leader , SADI | School of Architecture, Design and Interiors, Falmouth University, United Kingdom

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

2025 Special Focus—Learning from Artificial Intelligence: Pedagogical Futures and Transformative Possibilities

KEYWORDS

AI in HE design, Curriculum integration, Design workflows, Human-AI collaboration