Integrating Text-to-Image AI in Architectural Design Education: Analytical Perspectives from a Studio Experience

This paper examines the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into architectural design education, with a particular focus on the utilization of text-to-image AI tools in a third-year design studio project at Atılım University. The objective of the project was to examine the potential of AI-supported visual representation tools in conceptualizing future public spaces in Ankara. The study employs a combination of practical experimentation and theoretical analysis to examine the impact of text-to-image AI tools on design thinking and processes, as reflected in student projects generated through these tools. The research underscores the potential of integrating AI into architectural design education to foster creativity and critical thinking, emphasizing the underlying design principles and methods beyond mere visual outputs. The principal findings demonstrate that AI tools have the capacity to considerably extend the scope of design possibilities, assisting students in transcending the conventional boundaries of design. However, the research underscores the necessity of striking a balance between visual outputs and conceptual depth, ensuring that AI serves as an aid rather than a replacement in the comprehensive design process. A robust theoretical framework is vital for guiding AI integration and fostering critical understanding and thinking among students. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on the role of AI in reshaping architectural practice and education, proposing a balanced approach that values both technological proficiency and conceptual depth.