Student AI Case Studies
Critical Thinking
Reflecting on Ethical AI Art Practices
Strategy: Support Critical Thinking About Ethical AI Art Practices in Creative Media Courses
Artificial Intelligence can be integrated into art and media courses as both a creative tool and a subject of critical examination. By clearly defining when AI use is permitted, restricted, or required, instructors can help students develop technical fluency while fostering ethical awareness, citation practices, and critical reflection on AI-generated media within contemporary visual culture.
ART 2608 – The Art of Social Media
In ART 2608 The Art of Social Media, Shawn Cheatham and Learning Designer Daniel Jordan
intentionally integrating AI into a course focused on motion-based media, storytelling,
and critical media theory. As AI-generated art becomes increasingly prevalent across
social media platforms, a clear instructional challenge of the development was determining
how AI should function within a course centered on creative production and cultural
critique.
In this course, students explore real-world applications of AI in social media contexts,
examining both the creative possibilities and ethical implications of AI-generated
content. Assignments require students to reflect on appropriate citation of AI tools,
consider when AI use may be unethical, and critically analyze how AI shapes authorship,
aesthetics, and social commentary.
AI-generated visuals are incorporated throughout the course, including the landing
page GIF and module overview images, demonstrating how tools such as ChatGPT, Canva,
and Claude can support idea generation, image editing, and creative experimentation.
At the same time, certain activities intentionally restrict AI use to ensure that
students also engage in independent creative development. This balanced approach models
responsible AI integration in creative disciplines, encouraging students to navigate
AI’s role in art and social media with both innovation and critical awareness.
AI Tools Used: ChatGPT, Canva, Claude
Digital Learning Designer Tips
- Clearly communicate when AI use is permitted, required, or restricted to support ethical practice and academic integrity.
- Include examples of AI-generated work and demonstrate appropriate citation practices to help students understand expectations.
Quick Details
Faculty Developer: Shawn Cheatham
College: USF School of Art and Art History
Learning Designer: Daniel Jordan
AI Tools Used: ChatGPT, Canva, Claude