Exploring the benefits and hesitations of using GenAI for students in media design

Abstract

The rapid development of AI is well-known within the creative industry; however, the approach to using AI tools in innovative processes and design education remains untested. This study explores the benefits and hesitations of using GenAI for media design students. Focus groups were conducted and analysed with 33 Media Design students, respectively, after one lecture and seven lessons on GenAI. Most students had experience with GenAI before the workshops. After the workshops, students see AI as an assistant during the creative process: a brainstorming tool, an idea reorganiser, and a troubleshooter, resulting in a tailor-made study partner, while showing hesitations toward AI and obstacles to the creative process. Findings offer insights for educators and suggest that future research investigates the teaching approach for AI tools in the media design curriculum.