Artificially Creative? A look at the Potentials and Perils of AI in Art Education

Though artificial intelligence (AI) has been around for a few decades, it has become popular even with non-STEM students. Due to the rapid advancements of AI, it has come to the point that its utilization and integration in art education have resulted to debates. Thus, this study focused on the attitudes and opinions of education students enrolled in the Art Appreciation course. It also explored how the students viewed the ethical use of AI. Employing the descriptive quantitative research design, the study administered the survey questionnaire to 118 students. Findings showed that participants' attitudes about the use of AI in their art classes were generally favourable. Additionally, the students believed that AI could be a useful tool for teaching art techniques and for encouraging experimentation and innovation. Meanwhile, the importance of human connections, the employment market for artists, and authenticity were highlighted as issues of AI in art education. Participants felt that including AI in art curricula might help them get ready for the integration of art and artificial intelligence in the future and open up new avenues for artistic expression. However, they also suggested that the integration of AI should be optional and monitored to prevent negative impacts and prioritize the preservation of traditional art techniques and skills. Furthermore, participants recognized the importance of guidance on the ethical implications of using AI in art creation, and the need to recognize and value AI-generated art as a legitimate form of art.