IMPLEMENTING AI-DRIVEN TOOLS IN UX DESIGN COURSE IN ENGINEERING AND BUSINESS EDUCATION

Pedagogical transformations aim to improve the learning process. These innovations in training/teaching methods are crucial within the evolving economic landscape and technological advancements. Previous work on design thinking for CDIO curriculum development demonstrated that learning experience in a multi-disciplinary environment and human-centric approach help students learn in an innovative process. This article is about UX Design, which is also a user-centered process, but which focuses on optimizing the user experience when using technological products.  The aim of our endeavour is to implement AI tools in UX design taught to engineering and business students at Esprit, allowing them to be immersed in the realm of industry 4.0. Incorporating AI tools into user research methods during the UX design process in our curricula not only optimized the acquisition of essential data for students, but also fostered their skills in data analysis. In addition, it allows teachers to level up the complexity of the designed learning outcomes. In this regard, we explore how effective and engaging pedagogical methods using AI-driven tools could be in engineering and business education. Indeed, our programs are aligned with CDIO syllabus, we aim to cultivate a multifaceted skill set, covering knowledge, attitude, and skills development.  Moreover, the utilization of AI promotes a positive attitude toward embracing technological advancements, encouraging adaptability and a forward-thinking mindset. In terms of skills, students sharpen their strategic product design abilities, honing a crucial competence in navigating the intersection of AI technology and human-centered design practices. To illustrate this, we present a case study showcasing how the integration of AI tools in our curriculum has enabled students to navigate complex challenges effectively and teachers to update learning outcomes for enriched learning experience. Moreover, we examine the impact of these pedagogical transformations and AI integration, in conjunction within the CDIO context in our programs. We also share our survey findings to reinforce the efficacy of our approach showing that it could be adopted in different fields. We conclude by drawing up a reflective practice process to ensure an insightful integration of innovative tools into curriculum design helping our students to address their needs in a dynamic technological landscape.