International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences

search-icon

Integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Design Education: Evidence Review (2020–2024)

Open access
Generative technologies are reshaping creative industries and design workflows. This transformation is rapidly reaching undergraduate, studio-based design programs but the empirical picture remains fragmented with inconsistent reporting. A formal synthesis of the emerging evidence is essential to map its course and support informed decision-making. This evidence review maps how generative AI (GenAI) is being integrated into undergraduate and studio-based design education, synthesizing classroom practices, enabling and constraining conditions, pedagogical framings, and directions for future research. As GenAI tools enter art and design programs at pace, evidence remains fragmented across contexts and methods; consolidating it can guide practice, streamline integration, and help set a focused research agenda for design education. We conducted a PRISMA-ScR–aligned evidence mapping of empirical studies published 2020–2024. Systematic searches in Web of Science and Scopus identified studies of GenAI in design-education settings that reported learner, process, or artefact outcomes. After screening, we charted context, use case, and outcomes and produced a narrative synthesis; given the heterogeneity of designs and measures, we did not conduct a formal risk-of-bias assessment. The review contributes a design-education–specific evidence map, classifying GenAI use cases, cataloguing adoption enablers and barriers, and outlining a practical agenda for assessment and study design. Findings show GenAI is being embedded across the design process for ideation, iteration, visualization, and augmented critique. Adoption is supported by access to tools, staff development, and task scaffolds aligned with intended outcomes and rubrics; it is hindered by limited capacity building, curricular rigidity, and policy uncertainty. Few studies make explicit use of educational theory, and inconsistent measures, protocols, and reporting constrain effect estimation. Implications for practice include scaffolding prompting within briefs, aligning outcomes and rubrics with AI-supported processes, requiring disclosure of AI use and process evidence, and ensuring reliable access and support. Implications for research include employing validated measures, comparative and longitudinal designs, and richer reporting of context, tasks, and measures while grounding empirical work in established educational theory. Broader impact lies in encouraging responsible, effective GenAI use in creative education and supporting graduate readiness for AI-mediated design work. Priorities for future research include co-creative workflows and learner experiences, governance and authorship norms, fair AI-assisted assessment that balances the subjectivity of design with automated outputs, longitudinal effects on creative autonomy and artefact quality, and robust frameworks to scale integration.
Ali, H., & Maynard, A. D. (2021). Design the Future Activities (DFA): A Pedagogical Content Knowledge Framework in Engineering Design Education. ASEE Annual Conference and Exposition, Conference Proceedings.
Almaz, A. F., El-Agouz, E. A. E.-A., Abdelfatah, M. T., & Mohamed, I. R. (2024). The Future Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Design’s Integration into Architectural and Interior Design Education is to Improve Efficiency, Sustainability, and Creativity. Civil Engineering and Architecture, 12(3), 1749–1772. https://doi.org/10.13189/cea.2024.120336
Ambikairajah, E., Sirojan, T., Thiruvaran, T., & Sethu, V. (2024). ChatGPT in the Classroom: A Shift in Engineering Design Education. IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference, EDUCON. https://doi.org/10.1109/EDUCON60312.2024.10578884
Anantrasirichai, N., & Bull, D. (2022). Artificial intelligence in the creative industries: a review. Artificial Intelligence Review, 55(1), 589–656. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10462-021-10039-7
Bartlett, K. A., & Camba, J. D. (2024). Generative Artificial Intelligence in Product Design Education: Navigating Concerns of Originality and Ethics. International Journal of Interactive Multimedia and Artificial Intelligence, 8(5), 55–64. https://doi.org/10.9781/ijimai.2024.02.006
Basarir, L. (2022). Modelling AI in Architectural Education. Gazi University Journal of Science, 35(4), 1260–1278. https://doi.org/10.35378/gujs.967981
Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2019). Reflecting on reflexive thematic analysis. Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise and Health, Vol. 11. https://doi.org/10.1080/2159676X.2019.1628806
Brown, A., Goldstein, M. H., Clay, J., Demirel, H. O., Li, X., & Sha, Z. (2024). A Study on Generative Design Reasoning and Students’ Divergent and Convergent Thinking. Journal of Mechanical Design, 146(3). https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4064564
Calixto, V., & Croffi, J. (2024). BACK TO BLACK BOXES? An Urgent Call for Discussing the Impacts of the Emergent AI-Driven Tools in the Architecture Design Education. In N. Gardner, C. M. Herr, L. Wang, H. Toshiki, & S. A. Khan (Eds.), PROCEEDINGS OF THE 29TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR COMPUTER-AIDED ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN RESEARCH IN ASIA, CAADRIA 2024, VOL 3 (pp. 39–48).
Chandrasekera, T., Hosseini, Z., Perera, U., & Bazhaw Hyscher, A. (2024). Generative artificial intelligence tools for diverse learning styles in design education. International Journal of Architectural Computing. https://doi.org/10.1177/14780771241287345
Chandrasekera, Tilanka, Hosseini, Z., & Perera, U. (2024). Can artificial intelligence support creativity in early design processes? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURAL COMPUTING. https://doi.org/10.1177/14780771241254637
Chaudhuri, N. B., & Dhar, D. (2023). Designing deep-network based novelty assessment model in Design education. Applied Soft Computing, 134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asoc.2022.109966
Chaudhuri, N. B., Dhar, D., & Yammiyavar, P. G. (2022). A computational model for subjective evaluation of novelty in descriptive aptitude. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 32(2), 1121–1158. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-020-09638-2
Chee, H., Ahn, S., & Lee, J. (2024). A Competency Framework for AI Literacy: Variations by Different Learner Groups and an Implied Learning Pathway. British Journal of Educational Technology. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.13556
Chellappa, V., & Luximon, Y. (2024). Understanding the perception of design students towards ChatGPT. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, 7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.caeai.2024.100281
Chien, Y.-H., & Yao, C.-K. (2020). Development of an ai userbot for engineering design education using an intent and flow combined framework. Applied Sciences (Switzerland), 10(22), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.3390/app10227970
Choi, G. W., Kim, S. H., Lee, D., & Moon, J. (2024). Utilizing Generative AI for Instructional Design: Exploring Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. TechTrends, 68(4), 832–844. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11528-024-00967-w
Chumiran, M. H., & Abidin, S. Z. (2021). Design Pedagogy: Pictographic design artefacts perceived artificial intelligence elements for product designers. ENVIRONMENT-BEHAVIOUR PROCEEDINGS JOURNAL, 6(SI), 57–62. https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v6iSI4.2901
Chung, A., He, Y.-C., Lin, L.-F., & Liang, Y.-W. (2024). Importance of Different AI-Generated Journey Map Modules from Industrial Design Students’ Perspectives. 2024 IEEE 7th Eurasian Conference on Educational Innovation: Educational Innovations and Emerging Technologies, ECEI 2024, 242–245. https://doi.org/10.1109/ECEI60433.2024.10510784
Cropley, D., & Cropley, A. (2010). Recognizing and fostering creativity in technological design education. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 20(3), 345–358. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-009-9089-5
Cudzik, J., Nyka, L., & Szczepa?ski, J. (2024). Artificial intelligence in architectural education - green campus development research. Global Journal of Engineering Education, 26(1), 20–25.
Davis, F. D. (1989). Perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and user acceptance of information technology. MIS Quarterly: Management Information Systems, 13(3). https://doi.org/10.2307/249008
Do Amaral, I. (2024). Reflection on the use of Generative Language Models as a Tool for Teaching Design. EDUNINE 2024 - 8th IEEE World Engineering Education Conference: Empowering Engineering Education: Breaking Barriers through Research and Innovation, Proceedings. https://doi.org/10.1109/EDUNINE60625.2024.10500634
Doumpioti, C., & Huang, J. (2024). Collaborative Design with Generative AI and Collage: Enhancing creativity and participation in education. Proceedings of the International Conference on Education and Research in Computer Aided Architectural Design in Europe, 2, 445–454.
Fan, X., & Li, J. (2023). Artificial Intelligence-Driven Interactive Learning Methods for Enhancing Art and Design Education in Higher Institutions. Applied Artificial Intelligence, 37(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/08839514.2023.2225907
Fastabend, J., Müller, B., Roth, D., & Kreimeyer, M. (2024). Conceptualization of an artificial intelligence-assisted tutoring system for teaching technical drawing skills to undergraduate students. Proceedings of the Design Society, 4, 2835–2844. https://doi.org/10.1017/pds.2024.287
Flechtner, R., & Stankowski, A. (2023). AI Is Not a Wildcard: Challenges for Integrating AI into the Design Curriculum. ACM International Conference Proceeding Series, 72–77. https://doi.org/10.1145/3587399.3587410
Fleischmann, K. (2024a). Generative Artificial Intelligence in Graphic Design Education: A Student Perspective | L’intelligence artificielle générative dans l’enseignement du graphisme: Le point de vue d’un étudiant. Canadian Journal of Learning and Technology, 50(1). https://doi.org/10.21432/cjlt28618
Fleischmann, K. (2024b). The commodification of creativity: Integrating Generative Artificial Intelligence in higher education design curriculum. Innovations in Education and Teaching International. https://doi.org/10.1080/14703297.2024.2427039
Gao, W., Mei, Y., Duh, H., & Zhou, Z. (2024). Envisioning the incorporation of Generative Artificial Intelligence into future product design education: Insights from practitioners, educators, and students. Design Journal. https://doi.org/10.1080/14606925.2024.2435703
García-López, I. M., & Trujillo-Liñán, L. (2025). Ethical and regulatory challenges of Generative AI in education: a systematic review. Frontiers in Education, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2025.1565938
Giretti, A., Durmus, D., Vaccarini, M., Zambelli, M., Guidi, A., & di Meana, F. R. (2023). INTEGRATING LARGE LANGUAGE MODELS IN ART AND DESIGN EDUCATION. 20th International Conference on Cognition and Exploratory Learning in Digital Age, CELDA 2023, 25–33.
Han, X., Shan, Q., & Chu, T. (2023). Stereoscopic Image Quality Evaluation Method for Visual Communication Design. IEEE Access, 11, 134155–134165. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2023.3334154
Harun, N. A. N., Syed, M. A. M., & Abdullah, F. (2024). Revolutionising costume design education: a case study on the impact of Microsoft Copilot. QUALITY ASSURANCE IN EDUCATION. https://doi.org/10.1108/QAE-06-2024-0119
Hsieh, Y.-M., & Wu, K.-C. (2023). Identification Assessment of Applying Artificial Intelligence Image Generation Techniques in University Computer Graphics Courses. Proceedings - 2023 7th International Conference on E-Society, E-Education and E-Technology, ESET 2023, 50–54. https://doi.org/10.1109/ESET60968.2023.00015
Huang, K.-L., Liu, Y.-C., Dong, M.-Q., & Lu, C.-C. (2024). Integrating AIGC into product design ideation teaching: An empirical study on self-efficacy and learning outcomes. Learning and Instruction, 92. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.learninstruc.2024.101929
Hutson, J., Fulcher, B., & Ratican, J. (2024). Enhancing Assessment and Feedback in Game Design Programs: Leveraging Generative AI for Efficient and Meaningful Evaluation | Mejorando la evaluación y retroalimentación en programas de diseño de videojuegos: aprovechando la IA Generativa para una evaluac. International Journal of Educational Research and Innovation, 2024(22). https://doi.org/10.46661/ijeri.11038
Iranmanesh, A., & Lotfabadi, P. (2024). Critical questions on the emergence of text-to-image artificial intelligence in architectural design pedagogy. AI and Society. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00146-024-02111-x
Jiang, J. (2024). When generative artificial intelligence meets multimodal composition: Rethinking the composition process through an AI-assisted design project. Computers and Composition, 74, 102883. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compcom.2024.102883
Kahraman, M. U., ?ekerci, Y., & Develier, M. (2023). Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Interior Design Education: A Case Study on Creating Office Spaces for “Avrupa Yakas?” TV Series Characters. Interaction Design and Architecture(s), (59), 95–116. https://doi.org/10.55612/S-5002-059-004
Kavakoglu, A. A., Almac, B., Eser, B., & Alacam, S. (2022). AI Driven Creativity in Early Design Education A pedagogical approach in the age of Industry 5.0. In B. Pak, G. Wurzer, & R. Stouffs (Eds.), CO-CREATING THE FUTURE: INCLUSION IN AND THROUGH DESIGN, ECAADE 2022, VOL 1 (pp. 133–142).
Kim, J., Klopfer, M., Grohs, J. R., Eldardiry, H., Weichert, J., Cox, L. A., & Pike, D. (2025). Examining Faculty and Student Perceptions of Generative AI in University Courses. Innovative Higher Education, 50(4), 1281–1313. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10755-024-09774-w
Lee, J., & Suh, S. (2024). AI Technology Integrated Education Model for Empowering Fashion Design Ideation. Sustainability (Switzerland), 16(17). https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177262
Li, J., Liu, S., Zheng, J., & He, F. (2024). Enhancing visual communication design education: Integrating AI in collaborative teaching strategies. Journal of Computational Methods in Sciences and Engineering, 24(4–5), 2469–2483. https://doi.org/10.3233/JCM-247471
Li, Jie, Cao, H., Lin, L., Hou, Y., Zhu, R., & El Ali, A. (2024). User Experience Design Professionals’ Perceptions of Generative Artificial Intelligence. Proceedings of the CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, 1–18. New York, NY, USA: ACM. https://doi.org/10.1145/3613904.3642114
Liu, H., Zhang, X., Zhou, J., Shou, Y., Yin, Y., & Chai, C. (2024). Cognitive styles and design performances in conceptual design collaboration with GenAI. International Journal of Technology and Design Education. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-024-09937-y
Liu, Q. (2024). The Evolution of Visual Design: Balancing Innovation and Tradition in AI-Driven Enhancements. Arts Studies and Criticism, 5(5), 264. https://doi.org/10.32629/asc.v5i5.2940
Liu, X., & Yao, R. (2023). Design of Visual Communication Teaching System Based on Artificial Intelligence and CAD Technology. Computer-Aided Design and Applications, 20(S10), 90–101. https://doi.org/10.14733/cadaps.2023.S10.90-101
Lu, Y., Huang, T., Liu, J., & Gong, J. (2021). Design of Children’s Entertainment and Education Products Based on AR Technology. In Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-77943-6_19
Luckin, R., Rudolph, J., Grünert, M., & Tan, S. (2024). Exploring the future of learning and the relationship between human intelligence and AI. An interview with Professor Rose Luckin. Journal of Applied Learning and Teaching, 7(1).
Melker, S., Gabrils, E., Villavicencio, V., Faraon, M., & Rönkkö, K. (2025). Artificial intelligence for design education: a conceptual approach to enhance students’ divergent and convergent thinking in ideation processes. International Journal of Technology and Design Education. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-025-09964-3
Meron, Y., & Tekmen Araci, Y. (2023). Artificial intelligence in design education: evaluating ChatGPT as a virtual colleague for post-graduate course development. Design Science, 9. https://doi.org/10.1017/dsj.2023.28
Montenegro, N. (2024). INTEGRATIVE ANALYSIS OF TEXT-TO-IMAGE AI SYSTEMS IN ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN EDUCATION: PEDAGOGICAL INNOVATIONS AND CREATIVE DESIGN IMPLICATIONS. Journal of Architecture and Urbanism, 48(2), 109–124. https://doi.org/10.3846/jau.2024.20870
Nguyen, T., & Truong, H. (2025). Trends and Emerging Themes in the Effects of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Education: A Systematic Review. Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, 21(4).
Ning, J., Gao, Y., & Luo, M. (2024). Application Research of Generative Artificial Intelligence Technology in the Design and Art Course Teaching. Proceedings - 2024 International Conference on Informatics Education and Computer Technology Applications, IECA 2024, 165–169. https://doi.org/10.1109/IECA62822.2024.00038
Noortman, R., Lovei, P., & Funk, M. (2022). Teaching Data-Enabled Design: Student-led Data Collection in Design Education. In J. Domenech (Ed.), 8TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON HIGHER EDUCATION ADVANCES (HEAD `22) (pp. 223–230). https://doi.org/10.4995/HEAd22.2022.14583
Omran Zailuddin, M. F. N., Nik Harun, N. A., Abdul Rahim, H. A., Kamaruzaman, A. F., Berahim, M. H., Harun, M. H., & Ibrahim, Y. (2024). Redefining creative education: a case study analysis of AI in design courses. Journal of Research in Innovative Teaching and Learning, 17(2), 282–296. https://doi.org/10.1108/JRIT-01-2024-0019
Özorhon, G., Nitelik Gelirli, D., Lekesiz, G., & Müezzino?lu, C. (2025). AI-assisted architectural design studio (AI-a-ADS): How artificial intelligence join the architectural design studio? International Journal of Technology and Design Education. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-025-09975-0
Page, M. J., McKenzie, J. E., Bossuyt, P. M., Boutron, I., Hoffmann, T. C., Mulrow, C. D., … Moher, D. (2021). The PRISMA 2020 statement: an updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. BMJ, n71. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.n71
Rana, V., Verhoeven, B., & Sharma, M. (2025). Generative AI in Design Thinking Pedagogy: Enhancing Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Ethical Reasoning in Higher Education. Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice. https://doi.org/10.53761/tjse2f36
Ruan, X. (2024). The Application of Art and Design Teaching System in Universities Based on Artificial Intelligence Technology. International Conference on Distributed Computing and Optimization Techniques, ICDCOT 2024. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICDCOT61034.2024.10516151
Samad, A., Izani, M., Razak, A., & Rosli, M. (2024). Enhancing Creative Design: Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Interior Design Education at the University of Sharjah. 2024 International Visualization, Informatics and Technology Conference, IVIT 2024, 63–70. https://doi.org/10.1109/IVIT62102.2024.10692963
Shang, Y. (2021). The Training Mode of Design Talents in Colleges and Universities from the Perspective of Artificial Intelligence. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 1881(2). https://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/1881/2/022052
Stevens, J., Dedushkov, M., & Ionoescu, I. (2023). RESPONSIBLE DESIGN FOR (NOT WITH) HARD-TO-REACH USERS. In I. Ordonez, P. Sustersic, L. Buck, H. Grierson, & E. Bohemia (Eds.), PROCEEDINGS OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ENGINEERING AND PRODUCT DESIGN EDUCATION, E&PDE 2023 (pp. 427–432).
Tang, T., Li, P., & Tang, Q. (2022). New Strategies and Practices of Design Education Under the Background of Artificial Intelligence Technology: Online Animation Design Studio. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.767295
Tellez, F. A. (2025). Reflecting on the Integration of Generative AI in Design Education: Lessons from the Field. Voces y Silencios. Revista Latinoamericana de Educación, 16(2), 169–191. https://doi.org/10.18175/VyS16.2.2025.9
Tien, Y.-T., & Chen, R. (2024). Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in Design Education. ACM International Conference Proceeding Series, 123–126. https://doi.org/10.1145/3670013.3670044
Tong, H., Türel, A., ?enkal, H., Ergun, S. F. Y., Güzelci, O. Z., & Alaçam, S. (2023). Can AI Function as a New Mode of Sketching: A Teaching Experiment with Freshman. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning, 18(18), 234–248. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v18i18.42603
Tricco, A. C., Lillie, E., Zarin, W., O’Brien, K. K., Colquhoun, H., Levac, D., … Straus, S. E. (2018). PRISMA extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR): Checklist and explanation. Annals of Internal Medicine, Vol. 169. https://doi.org/10.7326/M18-0850
Vahdat, V., & Mansoori, M. (2020). Architectural education in the age of the intelligent machine. New Design Ideas, 4(1), 50–57.
Wang, H.-H., & Wang, C.-H. A. (2024). Teaching design students machine learning to enhance motivation for learning computational thinking skills. Acta Psychologica, 251. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104619
Wang, Y., & Zhang, W. (2023). Factors Influencing the Adoption of Generative AI for Art Designing Among Chinese Generation Z: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach. IEEE Access, 11, 143272–143284. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2023.3342055
Wei, L. (2024). Exploring Innovative Pathways of Artificial Intelligence Empowering Art and Design Education. ACM International Conference Proceeding Series, 32–37. https://doi.org/10.1145/3678392.3678417
Wei, W. (2024). Research on the Application Trend of Scenario Theory in the Field of Intelligent Product Innovation. In A. Marcus, E. Rosenzweig, & M. M. Soares (Eds.), DESIGN, USER EXPERIENCE, AND USABILITY, DUXU 2024, PT V (pp. 221–236). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-61362-3_17
Wong, S. C., Tan, H. W., & Ooi, K. H. (2025). 72-hour advertising challenge with generative AI in an undergraduate graphic design module: A case study. Australasian Journal of Educational Technology. https://doi.org/10.14742/ajet.10418
Xu, B., & Jiang, J. (2022). Exploitation for Multimedia Asian Information Processing and Artificial Intelligence-based Art Design and Teaching in Colleges. ACM TRANSACTIONS ON ASIAN AND LOW-RESOURCE LANGUAGE INFORMATION, 21(6). https://doi.org/10.1145/3526219
Yang, C. (2021). Online Art Design Education System Based On 3D Virtual Simulation Technology. Journal of Internet Technology, 22(6), 1419–1428. https://doi.org/10.53106/160792642021112206018
Yang, Y., & Sha, Z. (2021). Research on Innovation of Design Education Based on Artificial Intelligence Technology. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 2136(1). https://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/2136/1/012055
Yang, Z., & Shin, J. (2024). The impact of Gen AI on art and design program education. DESIGN JOURNAL. https://doi.org/10.1080/14606925.2024.2425084
Zhang, Z., Chen, H., Huang, R., Zhu, L., Ma, S., Leifer, L., & Liu, W. (2024). Automated Classification of User Needs for Beginner User Experience Designers: A Kano Model and Text Analysis Approach Using Deep Learning. AI (Switzerland), 5(1), 364–382. https://doi.org/10.3390/ai5010018
Zhao, K., Peng, C., & Wu, Y. (2024). Exploring the Teaching Path of Visual Communication in the Digital Era. International Journal of Web-Based Learning and Teaching Technologies, 19(1). https://doi.org/10.4018/IJWLTT.340937
Zhao, Y., & Gao, L. (2023). Classroom Design and Application of Art Design Education Based on Artificial Intelligence. International Journal of Information Technology and Web Engineering, 18(1). https://doi.org/10.4018/IJITWE.334008
Gulzar, S., Harun, J., & Yahaya, N. (2025). Integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Design Education: Evidence Review (2020–2024). International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 15(11), 284–317.