DREAMWORLDS: A CASE STUDY PRESENTING THE POTENTIAL OF TEXT-TO-IMAGE AI IN PRODUCT DESIGN EDUCATION
Year: 2024
Editor: Grierson, Hilary; Bohemia, Erik; Buck, Lyndon
Author: Brook, Emily Elizabeth; Hanley, Christopher; Campbell Cole, Ian; Hayes, Suzannah; Mutch, Craig
Series: E&PDE
Institution: Nottingham Trent University, United Kingdom
Page(s): 175 - 180
DOI number: 10.35199/EPDE.2024.30
ISBN: 978-1-912254-200
ISSN: 3005-4753
Abstract
This paper presents a two-part case study on the ""Dreamworlds"" project conducted with first-year BA Product Design Students. It explores the integration of Generative AI tools within a five-week design project, focusing on its role in speculative world-building and subsequent toy design. Part One involved collaborative exploration and creation of speculative worlds in teams of 3 – 4 students over two weeks. Leveraging Text-to-Image AI, students produced a 5-minute video presenting their visions, showcasing AI-generated visuals that enhanced artistic direction. Part Two shifted focus to designing toys for children aged 4-5, using the speculative worlds from Part One as inspiration. Unlike Part One, Part Two was carried out individually, emphasizing consideration of materials, safety, and cultural sensitivity. This case study contributes to the discourse on integrating AI in design education, offering insights into its roles in world-building and practical design. The ""Dreamworlds"" project serves as a practical example of AI application in both speculative and practical design education.
Keywords: Product Design Education, Text-to-Image AI, World-Building, Toy Design, Speculative Exploration