Understanding challenges and opportunities for AI integration within built environment curriculum

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into higher education within the built environment (BE) is rapidly transforming the pedagogy and practice. Recent studies highlight the potential of AI to enhance creativity, efficiency, and sustainability in design processes. For instance, a case study at Tongji University (Jin et al., 2024) demonstrated that an AI-assisted architectural programming and design course positively influenced student learning, with AI technologies improving innovative capability and work efficiency. Similarly, an experimental course at MSA University (Sadek & Mohamed, 2023) utilized AI programs to assist students in generating conceptual designs from textual narratives. The findings indicated that AI tools can significantly enhance creativity in the conceptual design phase. Moreover, the adoption of Generative AI tools has been shown to improve digital literacy and holistic competencies among BE students. These tools aid in conceptual creativity, time management, and stress reduction, thereby enhancing overall student performance. However, challenges persist, including the fragmented application of AI technologies and the need for a systematic approach to their integration into curricula. By embracing AI, future professionals can be equipped with the necessary skills to navigate and lead in an increasingly digital and sustainable built environment. Therefore, this study aims at carrying out a detailed comprehensive review on the application of AI within various disciplines of higher education around the world and understand the challenges and opportunities for the BE context.