Exploring AI assisted pattern making in art and crafts education

Abstract

AI text-to-image generative technology has transformed how we can visualise. Access to such tools opens new learning opportunities that require development and a critical mindset. As part of an ongoing design-based research project in art, crafts, and design education, we are interested in learning about how AI can contribute to new insights or enhance students’ creative learning processes. Previous research shows that AI-generated images can inspire creative processes, but few studies have included children and young people. This study explores how AI text-to-image generative technology can contribute to students’ creative learning processes in a project that seeks to bridge digital and tactile experience. In this current study, we collaborated with a teacher to develop a project for Year 6 students (11–12 years old). The students generated patterns using Midjourney, printed them on adhesive vinyl, and attached them to silkscreens to create stencils for textile prints. Data was collected through the qualitative methods of participant observation and informal conversational interviews, conducted by three researchers who made individual observation notes. We further analysed the students’ interactions with the AI and documented their work through photography. The results suggest that using AI-assisted pattern generation in combination with traditional silkscreen printing can foster student engagement, perseverance, and creative ownership. 

Keywords: AI, text-to-image generation, pattern making, art and crafts education, silkscreen printing