Abstract:

This paper presents an innovative educational approach within the transdisciplinary program of Informatics and Design, which is tailored to equip students for the challenges of digital transformation. Unlike traditional computer science programs, this course caters to a diverse range of students with varying levels of prior knowledge. A key feature of the program is its emphasis on balancing the aspects of design and implementation right from the first semester. This is exemplified in a unique project that is co-taught by a computer scientist and a designer, aiming to bridge the gap between design and implementation.

The project focuses on the development of a chatbot, which is an ideal tool to experience the interplay between implementation and design. Chatbots, in this context, are more than just visual interfaces; they embody service design elements and allow for an immersive understanding of user experience. Importantly, the recent advancements in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Large Language Models (LLMs) have been seamlessly integrated into the project, enabling the creation of realistic prototypes.

One of the project’s notable aspects is its dynamic nature, adapting to the latest developments in the field. The announcement of new tools and features by entities like OpenAI necessitates timely modifications in the ongoing project, highlighting the importance of adaptability in technology education. This aspect underscores the necessity of collaboration between design and technology. The paper argues that technological advancements, new features, and APIs can only be fully leveraged if they are approached with a human-centered and problem-focused design perspective.

The outcomes of this project demonstrate that when design and technology are taught in tandem, it leads to a more comprehensive understanding and skill set among students. This approach not only prepares them for the current landscape of digital technology but also instills a mindset of continuous adaptation and learning, which is crucial in the ever-evolving STEM fields. The paper concludes that the integration of design and technology in education, especially in emerging fields like AI, chatbots, robotics and other, is essential for preparing students to meet the demands of digital transformation effectively.

Keywords:

Transdisciplinarity, STEM curriculum design, AI education, chatbots, human-centered design.