Spotlight on SPP: Visual media literacy and image ethics in and before the era of generative Artificial Intelligence

What is your project and what did you find?

Our project, “Media literacy and image ethics in and before the era of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI),” focuses on how students engage with AI-generated visual media, and what personal skills and educational supports they need to navigate this evolving digital landscape. According to the 2024 report entitled, “Undergraduate Student Perspectives on Generative Artificial Intelligence at McMaster”, students are both curious and skeptical about AI, specifically expressing concerns about misinformation and academic integrity. We are working on developing educational resources, including informal options like social media content and exhibits, to promote visual media literacy. We aim to equip students with the tools to critically engage with digital media and Artificial Intelligence through collaborative, student-centered learning approaches.

How Might this research impact other instructors and students?

Our project will provide both students and instructors with relevant and educational resources that address the academic and social implications of AI generated media. Through the encouragement of historical thinking and case analysis, the project offers students practical knowledge on how to spot visual misinformation, as well as to recognize potential biases, ethical issues, and patterns in the output of generative AI. By creating materials and workshops with student input, this we are looking to introduce interdisciplinary thinking to the reception of AI visuals, which, in turn, will hopefully bring more clarity on how to move forward with critical thinking and responsible use of AI in academia and beyond.

Why the partnership model?

Bringing an undergraduate Student Partner onto this project ensures the work remains

relevant to student experiences and concerns, which non-student staff alone may not have insight into. A student collaborator offers firsthand perspective on how generative AI is being used by university peers, inside and outside of academic settings, as well as deeper insight into what students think about generative AI and its ethical and academic implications. Student involvement promotes a better-informed plan, and creates a more inclusive research process, where student voices are heard and valued. This partnership bridges gaps between institutional goals and student needs, resulting in more relevant, engaging, and student-centered outcomes.

Feature image: AI Generated Image Challenge that Juno and Sonya created for their project: Can you Spot the AI?