Action Research on the Educational Outcomes of AI Application in the Conceptual Ideation Phase of Innovative Design Thinking

This study aims to explore the application of AI tools in an innovative design thinking course, conducting action research on freshmen students in a general education program at Chang Gung University in Taoyuan, Taiwan. The research focuses on integrating AI tools such as chatGPT's text question-and-answer function and Bing AI Image's image generation tool into the teaching of innovative design thinking for non-design majors. Through the adoption of innovative teaching methods like the “flipped classroom” by teachers, the study investigates the impact of AI tools on the teaching process through pre-class preparation, classroom observation, and the evaluation of students’ individual and group creative works. The study employed research tools such as action research, expert analysis, and case studies. The results indicate that AI artificial intelligence tools have had a positive effect on the teaching of innovative design thinking for non-design majors. With teachers’ pre-class guidance, case demonstrations, and the provision of introductory spells, students were able to input textual concepts into spells and create stunning design sketches beyond expectations in class. Under the guidance of comprehensive design concepts, the speed of design, the quantity of creations, and self-satisfaction were all significantly improved. Therefore, it is suggested to consider AI artificial intelligence tools as partners in interdisciplinary design teaching to enable teachers and students to have more time for design thinking and continuously improving innovative design concepts.