AI at UMA – Principles for Architectural Education and Research

At Umeå School of Architecture (UMA), artificial intelligence is understood as a set of emerging technologies that (re)shape architectural design, knowledge production, and the future of the built environment. UMA supports the thoughtful integration of AI in architectural education and research while maintaining critical reflection, disciplinary integrity, and environmental responsibility.

Architecture operates within urgent societal and environmental challenges, particularly the climate crisis. The use of AI should therefore be approached not only as a creative and technical opportunity, but also as an ethical and environmental responsibility.

Experimentation and learning

UMA encourages students, teachers, and researchers to explore AI tools as part of architectural practice and inquiry. Experimentation supports the development of new methods, critical understanding of technological possibilities and limitations, and reflection on how digital tools influence design processes and the built environment. AI should support — rather than replace — independent judgement, creative authorship, and architectural competence.

Critical and ethical engagement

The use of AI raises questions concerning authorship, knowledge production, labour, and societal impact. All use of AI at UMA should strive to involve critical assessment of its implications and alignment with the values of responsible architectural practice. AI should contribute positively to society and the built environment.

Environmental and climate awareness

As architecture plays a central role in addressing climate change, UMA recognises the environmental impact of AI technologies, including their energy use and associated carbon emissions as well as the water demand. Students and staff are encouraged to reflect on the necessity and consequences of AI use, favour resource-efficient approaches, and to continue to consider sustainability in design and research decisions.

Transparency and responsibility

UMA strives to build a culture of transparency around the use of AI. Students, teachers, and researchers should clearly communicate how and when AI tools are used in their work and take responsibility for the quality, reliability, and ethical implications of their outputs. UMA strives to create an open on-going process of sharing examples of best practices as well as critical reflections and by so, welcome suggestions also from the surrounding community.