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Research on the emerging technological intervention models in design education from a strategic perspective of global design education institutions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: With the rapid advancement of emerging technologies, design education is undergoing a model transformation. This study employs a mixed-methods approach that combines semantic textual analysis with semi-structured interviews, which aims to examine the development strategies of 71 design education institutions worldwide to systematically analyze the pathways through which technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR), Big Data, and Robotics are integrated into design education. Four major models of intervention are identified: lab-driven innovation, industry incubation, interdisciplinary fusion, and curriculum integration. The research reveals that emerging technologies primarily intervene in areas such as instructional support, pedagogy, and curriculum structure, while remaining underrepresented in strategic dimensions such as regional distribution of DEIs, degree types, and stakeholder types. It also highlights key challenges including resource disparity, lack of accreditation frameworks, overreliance on technology, and ethical risks. In response, it proposes strategic solutions such as regional resource sharing, modular accreditation systems, human-AI collaborative teaching, industry-driven curriculum optimization, and ethical governance of technology.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-25272-1

Authors: Fan Chen, Zhongjie Lin, Xiang Li

Institutions: Tongji University, University of Pennsylvania, Zhejiang University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Design Education and Practice

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690