Exploring the Modular Integration of "AI + Architecture" Pedagogy in Undergraduate Design Education: A Case Study of Architectural Design III/IV Courses at Zhejiang University

TL;DR

This paper presents a case study on integrating AI tools and ethics into undergraduate architectural design courses, demonstrating improved student skills and a replicable teaching model.

Contribution

It introduces a dual-module AI pedagogy combining technical training and ethics discussions within architecture education, supported by institutional frameworks.

Findings

Enhanced students' digital skills and strategic thinking.

Effective phased guidance improves AI learning outcomes.

Balanced technical and ethical instruction fosters comprehensive understanding.

Abstract

This study investigates AI integration in architectural education through a teaching experiment in Zhejiang University's 2024-25 grade three undergraduate design studio. Adopting a dual-module framework (20-hour AI training + embedded ethics discussions), the course introduced deep learning models, LLMs, AIGC, LoRA, and ComfyUI while maintaining the original curriculum structure, supported by dedicated technical instructors. Findings demonstrate the effectiveness of phased guidance, balanced technical-ethical approaches, and institutional support. The model improved students' digital skills and strategic cognition while addressing AI ethics, providing a replicable approach combining technical and critical learning in design education.