AI, VR, AR and MR as ideation tools

Of the four categories of ideation tools (words, sketching, modelling and computing), computing is fast becoming a powerful means of generating and communicating design ideas that goes beyond traditional CAD systems or rendering and editing software. Thus artificial intelligence, AI, is already making inroads in designing behaviour for AI powered objects, for example, robot vacuum cleaners, smart devices to help save energy or enforce safety, or software for creating new cooking recipes without cultural bias. Equally exciting is the potential of virtual reality, VR, augmented reality, AR, or mixed reality, MR, as ideation tools. VR games are showing the way whereby users, unlike traditional user interfaces are immersed and able to interact with 3D worlds. AR is exemplified by the Google glass, and MR by the Microsoft HoloLens. But while these technologies brings both similar and different experiences, as ideation tools they could be seen as complimentary rather than competing technologies.

Ideation and screen language

The ideation workshop exemplifies discovery-based learning through the use of ideation tools, or learning by doing, with the know-how which is manifested in cognitive skills as well as work practice. In this pursuit, the participants experience what it means to gain access to and become a member of the design community. And as today's design community is heavily engaged in the use of computing (Information and Communication Technology), both in terms of learning and  professional practice, many ideation tools now operate in the digital culture which has developed its particular screen language and whether expressed and represented in text, images, sound or other media. Moreover, the workshop highlights how designers have to be familiar not only with digital technology but also be apt at finding data, both on- and off-line which can be used or transformed to build something new, and whether abstract, concrete or visual, in a process that is akin to assemblage, bricolage or collage.