The Human and Machine, 2022-23

Open AI, ChatGPT, Quillbot, Grammarly, Google, Google Docs & humans*

Abstract

With the release of generative text and image-based tools like Midjourney and ChatGPT in 2022, discussions about artifical intelligence (AI) and its impact on design, design education, and research have moved from the periphery to the forefront. These powerful tools, often open-access beta versions, have transformed speculative dialogue into a present reality. Their sophisticated and intuitive user interfaces facilitate the speedy and profi-cient generation of text, and image-based content, enabling designers, educators, and learners to simultaneously discover the dangers and possi-bilities of generative AI technologies. To explore the unique powers of both generative AI and human cognition, the author uses autoethnography, AI writing assistants, and generative AI technology to develop a story of practice. The narrative is informed by, and ultimately supports the scholarly literature that emphasizes the need for humans to take responsibility for the equitable and ethical use of AI. This includes initiating and guiding AI systems, critically evaluating their responses, and reformulating, editing, and verifying outputs to address factual inaccuracies, misleading informa-tion, or offensive and biased content.