Creating images using AI

Considerations

Before creating AI generated imagery and using it in your course there are a number of considerations to be taken into account. 

Using AI-generated images through text to image generators (such as Copilot Designer) can be a useful way to create specific images for your teaching. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind before including these images in your course.

Consider:

• What is the purpose of use for the image? Is it illustrative or decorative? If illustrative, or to demonstrate a concept, consider if there is a better image available that is not AI-generated, as AI images may contain inaccuracies. Photo library sites such as Pexels and Unsplash have images available free to use.
• Be aware of potential bias in AI-generated images, particularly regarding gender, race, culture, and ability. While AI images can offer more variety in diversity of representation across contexts than a stock photo library, they can also unintentionally replicate or incorporate harmful biases. Ensure you are using diverse and inclusive images that represent a range of perspectives and experiences.
• Undertake a quality control check before publishing to confirm the validity, accuracy and reliability of images and information. Consider resolution, clarity, and relevance to the educational content. Ensure that the AI-generated images are accurate representations of the concepts being taught.
• Assess the pedagogical value of using AI-generated images in teaching. Determine whether they enhance student understanding, engagement, and retention of the material compared to other forms of visual aids.
• Ensure images are accessible to all students as outlined in the guide below, and use alt text (unless for decorative purposes only).
• Be aware of potential ethical implications of images, especially if they depict sensitive or controversial subject matter.
• Ensure you are respecting intellectual property rights/copyright. Obtain permissions or licenses as required, and give appropriate credit to the creators or sources of the images.
• Encourage feedback from students on their experience of AI-generated images, and reflect on your own experience.

Some additional points to be aware of:

• AI-generated images often struggle to replicate some human features, such as hands.
• Use specific language in your prompts. You may need to refine the image with additional prompts or details.

Resources:

Using text to image generative AI tools		Using text to vector generative AI tools