Applications of Generative AI in Architectural Design Education: A Systematic Review and Future Insights

This study reviews the current applications of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in architectural design education using the PRISMA framework. It compares these applications across the different design stages, namely the pre-design, concept generation, design development, and design production, to identify the current state of evidence and conceptual discussions reported in the literature. The study also discusses the associated opportunities and challenges in this regard. The findings indicate that there is a growing interest in integrating GenAI into architectural design education, especially in the early design stages. However, one of the most significant gaps in this regard lies in the lack of empirical evidence on the long-term impacts of GenAI on students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Future research is needed to explore the integration of GenAI throughout the entire design process, including design development and refinement. There is also a need to incorporate the relevant ethical guidelines for AI-generated content into academic quality assurance systems and to strengthen institutional preparedness through targeted training and policy development.