ABSTRACT VIEW
Abstract NUM 1022

GENERATIVE AI IN THE CLASSROOM: ENHANCING CREATIVITY AND EFFICIENCY IN STRUCTURAL DESIGN EDUCATION AT VILNIUS TECH
E. Timinskas, D. MakutÄ—nienÄ—
Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (LITHUANIA)
As civil engineering studies are accompanied by rapid technological advances, the integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) into the curriculum promotes critical thinking and the ability to creatively apply AI solutions in a variety of fields. This paper explores the potential of generative AI to enhance student engagement, creativity and competence development in the course "Object-oriented and Parametric Modelling BIM-1" provided at Vilnius Gediminas Technical University.

The course provides students with basic Building Information Modelling (BIM) skills using platforms such as Autodesk Revit, focusing on object-based modelling, parametric design, construction detailing and engineering documentation. The course is taught through a multi-disciplinary project based on a real residential estate development, covering architectural, structural, mechanical-electrical-plumbing (MEP) and sustainability modelling, aligned with BIM Execution Plan (BEP) standards.

This article explores how generative AI technologies could transform learning processes in a course. Proposed solutions include artificial intelligence-generated structural assemblies and connection details, creating design alternatives using machine learning algorithms, optimising material specifications, and automated critique and feedback of student models. These tools aim to automate labour-intensive tasks, reallocating student effort to higher-level thinking, creative design evaluation, and complex problem solving.

Keywords: Generative AI, Civil Engineering Education, Building Information Modeling, BIM, Parametric Modeling, AI in Education.

Event: ICERI2025
Session: Creativity & Critical Thinking
Session time: Monday, 10th of November from 12:30 to 13:45
Session type: ORAL