AI as Facilitator of Human-Led Creativity, Creative Partner, or Semi-Autonomous Creative Artefact Generator? The Role of AI in Supporting Creative Processes

<p>Human creativity is multifaceted and highly contextual. This study evaluates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in supporting creativity in educational settings. Through a systematic review of 36 empirical studies, a research objective was developed to identify three distinct AI roles in the creative processes: (1) AI as a facilitator of human-led creativity, (2) AI as a collaborative partner in co-creativity, and (3) AI as a semi-autonomous creative artefact generator. These categories span a continuum of learner agency and involvement in the creative processes. Our findings reveal that while AI can support both divergent and convergent thinking phases, its pedagogical value depends on the learner's ability to regulate its use and maintain creative control. We propose the concept of co-creative AI fluency to describe the emerging set of competencies needed to engage with AI as a creative partner. This framework offers educators a foundation for integrating AI meaningfully into creative learning environments while preserving human agency in the use of AI to support the creative learning processes.</p>