CMU School of Drama


Thursday, October 05, 2023

Is AI a Tool or a Taskmaster?

Architect Magazine: “Architecture was more of a handcrafted object, like [during] the Renaissance, when I first emerged,” said the late architectural pioneer Beverly Willis, 95, during a recent phone call as she discussed the impacts of technology during her long career. “And then it blossomed into this business, this science: the science of the soil, of the air, of things we didn’t consider when we started.”

2 comments:

Harshitha Bharghava said...

Personally, I think AI is a super duper helpful asset to solve many different problems. For example, I know that my dad, who is a software engineer, uses it when he works. He continuously invests in the latest and most updated version of the app so the machine can help him write code for a specific app he’s working on, and it can also help him troubleshoot any code / programming that isn't working for some reason. On the other hand, it can be used in malice and that sadly, was the rise of issues in high schools across the country mid last school year. I remember that our teachers had prefaced us NOT to use ChatGPT because that was a violation of the schools academic integrity rule. But, there were students who used AI to help get ideas for projects (me included), and got AI to help check their math homework. It’s safe to say that AI has been on the rise and it has proven its usefulness as a tool,but it’s also made its mark as a tool that can be taken advantage of.

John Alexander Farrell said...

The impending integration of AI into architecture prompts a spectrum of emotions—fear, excitement, or a blend of both. However, amidst the uncertainty, the transformative potential is undeniable. Rather than viewing AI as a threat, a shift in perspective reveals it as a catalyst for reimagining our creative processes. The sentiment resonates with my belief that this change is not inherently negative; instead, it challenges us to evolve in how we conceive and execute ideas. AI is not positioned to replace architects but to redefine their roles. It compels us to envision a symbiotic relationship where technology becomes an indispensable tool in our daily practices. This perspective aligns with my optimistic outlook, recognizing the adaptability and resilience of human creativity. AI, when integrated thoughtfully, becomes an asset—a partner that enhances, refines, and augments our capabilities. As the article suggests, acknowledging AI as a tool rather than a taskmaster becomes paramount. Embracing this mindset invites architects to explore uncharted realms, fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of what's achievable. In this inevitable evolution, our ability to seamlessly incorporate AI into our creative toolkit stands as a testament to our capacity for adaptation and progress.