AI+Design

Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are playing an increasingly central role in shaping human-computer interaction and user experience design. This shift presents new challenges for both designers and design education. As part of the cross-institutional research and teaching project KITeGG, five universities are developing forward-thinking approaches to integrating AI into the design curriculum. Each institution brings its own focus and expertise, offering diverse strategies for addressing the complexities of this emerging field.

At HfG Schwäbisch Gmünd, we launched the AI+Design Lab as a place of specialization on AI Technologies. The lab serves as a resource hub for students, offering technical guidance, project support, and introductory formats to help develop what we call AI intuition: a foundational, practice-oriented understanding of how AI works and where its limitations lie.

Closely linked with other courses, the lab enables students to make informed decisions about the use of AI, evaluating its capabilities, limitations, development costs, and ethical implications. Students are encouraged to experiment with existing technologies, prototype AI-driven interactions using accessible tools and frameworks, and critically reflect on potential side effects and unintended consequences of AI systems. In addition to supporting students, the lab also serves as a resource for educators.

By embedding AI education into the design curriculum, the AI+Design Lab aims to prepare students for the responsible development of this emerging technology, highlighting the designer’s role in bridging technical possibilities with human values and societal needs.