Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
A Pedagogical Framework For Project Management In AI-Driven Engineering Design
Brahma, Arindam; Isaksson, Ola; Pradas Gómez, Alejandro
Type:
Year:
2026
Editor:
Juuti, T.; Karhunen, V; Vanhatalo, M.; Lehtonen, T.;Kopra, M-J.
Author:
Series:
NordDESIGN
Institution:
Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden
Page(s):
613-621
DOI number:
ISBN:
978-1-912254-21-7
ISSN:
NA
Abstract:
Traditional engineering design pedagogy, built on linear, phase-gated project management models, is increasingly insufficient for preparing students for modern AI-driven design projects. This new paradigm presents a dual pedagogical challenge: 1) a process challenge, as AI projects are defined by iterative, data-dependent, and uncertain lifecycles, and 2) a social challenge, as AI shifts the engineer's role from "doer" to "orchestrator" within a complex human-AI collaboration. This paper presents an integrated 10-unit curriculum development from an Erasmus+ EU project, as a novel pedagogical solution. The framework is designed to scaffold process uncertainty, systematically bridging the gap between traditional project management and the unique, iterative lifecycles of AI projects. This scaffold then enables the teaching of new, human-centric collaborative competencies through active learning interventions, which are grounded in practice-based learning principles. These include stakeholder co-design simulations and a role-playing exercise where students must navigate the inherent conflicts between AI performance and human-centred design goals.
Keywords:
