Teaching Illustration in the Age of Generative AI

Abstract

According to Klaus Schwab, the Fourth Industrial Revolution is characterised in part by AI and machine learning (Schwab, 2017). Importantly, he proposes ‘4IR’ as distinct from previous industrial revolutions due to its “velocity”. This paper chronicles the introduction of AI into teaching and learning on an illustration degree programme from 2020 to 2024. During this time, AI developed rapidly and some students who were unaware of its potential in 2020 now express concerns about its impact. Some used AI in their projects, while others regard it with scepticism. This paper explains the selection process used to evaluate the AI tools and recounts how students responded to its inclusion in teaching and learning. Based on experience gained from the study, it proposes an AI monitoring and implementation process that can be used by other courses, and outlines the challenges and opportunities faced by higher education at a time of rapid change.