AI-based design tools are fundamentally changing how designers work across various industries. AI-based design tools make independent design decisions and, in some cases, execute entire design processes. They employ technologies typically associated with artificial intelligence, including machine learning, pattern recognition, meta-heuristics, and evolutionary algorithms.
AI-based design tools enable the generation of a diverse range of design artifacts, including next-generation computer chips, specialized software for specific domains, three-dimensional virtual worlds, and extensive content, such as for video games and feature films. The applications for such AI-based design tools are also expanding to other industries, such as mechanical engineering, aerospace, and architecture.

Instead of creating artifacts by directly manipulating their representations, designers select tools, decide on design parameters, set values for these parameters, and evaluate and learn from the analysis of the results the tools produce. Design work in such situations involves intense interaction with AI-based tools. Designers need to be mindful of the logic, capabilities, and limitations of the tools and the algorithms these tools employ and find ways to make sense of and deal with the often unanticipated outputs of such tools.

The course addresses this increasingly important role of AI-based design tools by

• discussing the conceptual foundations of AI-based design tools.
• discussing how AI-based design tools change the nature of work and the role of human designers.
• analysing examples of using AI-based tools in design practice.
• providing hands-on experience in agent-based modelling for students to simulate the behavior of these tools.
• providing hands-on experience in using AI-based design tools for the design of virtual worlds.

• The module involves interactive lectures with exercises to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical de-sign and analysis skills.
• Contemporary scientific publications from Information Systems, Management, and Computer Science are dis-cussed in class.
• The NetLogo software is used to model and simulate AI-based design agents.
• Further software tools may be used throughout class

After successful completion of the course, students will

Professional competence

• understand the main concepts, theories, and methods related to AI-based design tools
• understand the applications for AI-based design tools in different industries

Methodological competence

• be able to apply central concepts and methods to relevant areas of application
• be able to identify areas of improvement using new technologies
• be able to analyse examples and provide recommendations in design practice

Social competence

• be able to reflect their own experiences in the field of AI-based design tools concerning the presented topics
• be able to work in groups and deal with cases from practice in order to identify and discuss challenges and so-lutions

Personal competence

• be able to analyse how AI-based design tools change work processes
• possess knowledge to identify areas of improvement or innovation
• be able to apply their knowledge in real-life cases

Technological competence

• be able to develop agent-based models for simulating AI-based design tools

• Students are provided with the lecture slides and supplementary material (e.g., selected journal articles).

Written exam