Adoption of Generative Artificial Intelligence in K12 Design and Technology Education

Technological artefacts and tools play a crucial role in design and technology (D&T) education as they support the mediation between individuals and their environment. With the advent of generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI), popularised by large language models and tools, D&T practices are being challenged as the technology is being integrated into the educational landscape. Although AI is attracting growing attention because of the potentialities it offers, it is not yet clear about the reasons underlying an adoption and/or rejection when addressing educational, but also technical and social challenges in classrooms. This paper investigates these reasons adopting a mixed research methodology which involves a survey addressed to D&T educators to collect their views and determine factors that influence AI adoption, and a case study that discusses ten capabilities from three well-known Gen-AI platforms (Midjourney, Padlet, and Newarc.ai) with respect to D&T teaching and learning. Results from the survey showed that participants recognised the value, accuracy and benefit of AI in D&T in a very high level of acceptance, whereas trust in transparency, explainability, privacy and data security depicted a different viewpoint, indicating potential uncertainties around AI. Additionally, a couple of strong pairwise correlations were found between drivers. These results are particularly important as they provide directions and insights into the development and validation of a framework towards AI adoption with respect to D&T but also practical implications for research and education when developing effective, efficient and personalised AI-supported instructions.