Leveraging AI to Instruct Architecture Students on Circular Design Techniques and Life Cycle Assessment

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the use of AI as a tool for educating architecture students in circular design principles and life cycle assessment (LCA). A qualitative research approach is taken to identify current challenges and solutions, and to provide insightful predictions and explanations from various perspectives. The paper emphasizes the importance of sustainability in architecture education and assesses the difficulties of teaching circular design and LCA, and how AI can simplify the process. The role of AI in promoting cradle-to-cradle thinking in the design stage is demonstrated through the use of a standard LCA framework to make the assessment process more accessible to students. Key factors such as the building's climatic zone, location, type, service life, and energy consumption and CO2 emissions are considered as part of the system boundary. The study concludes with limitations, recommendations, and guidelines for architecture students.