Chapter 7: Examining the Criteria Used to Grade Architecture Student Projects Utilizing AI Programs

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in architectural projects has recently gained tremendous global popularity. Many AI systems have surfaced, enabling users to input a few keywords to generate fully rendered architectural designs. Nevertheless, this raises the question of the criteria used to evaluate the projects of students who utilize AI programs. To date, insufficient research has focused on how to assess students using AI technology in their architecture projects. The use of AI programs by students will likely become inevitable, and without proper consideration, it can lead to unfairness. The aim of this research is to provide a framework for developing an optimal grading system with clear criteria for students using AI in their architectural projects. To achieve this, there should be an identification of the traditional grading system and its set of criteria. The research employs a qualitative method involving interviews and a comparative analysis between two sets of grading systems for project evaluation—one using traditional methods and the other utilizing an AI program. These projects will be evaluated using a specific set of criteria by three categories of stakeholders: students, faculty, and practitioners. The expected results of the research will conclude the grading criteria that should be used on architecture projects developed by AI programs.