Generative AI in Project-Based 3D Modeling: Effects on Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Workflow

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Title: Generative AI in Project-Based 3D Modeling: Effects on Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Workflow
Language: English
Authors: Shyu Wye Ee, Zaidatun Tasir
Source: Online Learning. 2026 30(1):531-555.
Availability: Online Learning Consortium, Inc. P.O. Box 1238, Newburyport, MA 01950. Tel: 888-898-6209; Fax: 888-898-6209; e-mail: olj@onlinelearning-c.org; Web site: https://olj.onlinelearningconsortium.org/index.php/olj/index
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 25
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Artificial Intelligence, Active Learning, Student Projects, Models, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Foreign Countries, Animation, Technology Uses in Education, Computer Software, Student Attitudes, Private Colleges, College Students, Computer Simulation
Geographic Terms: Malaysia
ISSN: 2472-5749
2472-5730
Abstract: Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen-AI) has sparked significant debate within creative industries and educational settings. This study examined the effect of integrating Gen-AI tools into project-based 3D Modeling on students' creativity, critical thinking, processes, and workflows. A mixed-method research design with a sequential explanatory approach was employed, involving 19 students from a Malaysian creative arts institution specializing in 3D design, selected through convenience sampling. Quantitative data were gathered from students' creative scores based on Amabile's Componential Model for Creativity and timeline worksheets documenting the time spent on artwork creation. Qualitative data were collected through interviews to assess critical thinking, and through self-reflection forms to evaluate processes and workflows. Insights were also gained from two industry experts regarding their use of Gen-AI tools. Findings indicated that Gen-AI tools enhanced creativity and accelerated the creative process, thereby improving workflow efficiency. However, mixed reactions were observed regarding the implementation of Gen-AI tools in education, highlighting concerns about academic integrity and ethical considerations. This study provides valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges associated with the use of Gen-AI tools in educational contexts.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1508145
Database: ERIC
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  Data: Online Learning Consortium, Inc. P.O. Box 1238, Newburyport, MA 01950. Tel: 888-898-6209; Fax: 888-898-6209; e-mail: olj@onlinelearning-c.org; Web site: https://olj.onlinelearningconsortium.org/index.php/olj/index
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  Data: Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen-AI) has sparked significant debate within creative industries and educational settings. This study examined the effect of integrating Gen-AI tools into project-based 3D Modeling on students' creativity, critical thinking, processes, and workflows. A mixed-method research design with a sequential explanatory approach was employed, involving 19 students from a Malaysian creative arts institution specializing in 3D design, selected through convenience sampling. Quantitative data were gathered from students' creative scores based on Amabile's Componential Model for Creativity and timeline worksheets documenting the time spent on artwork creation. Qualitative data were collected through interviews to assess critical thinking, and through self-reflection forms to evaluate processes and workflows. Insights were also gained from two industry experts regarding their use of Gen-AI tools. Findings indicated that Gen-AI tools enhanced creativity and accelerated the creative process, thereby improving workflow efficiency. However, mixed reactions were observed regarding the implementation of Gen-AI tools in education, highlighting concerns about academic integrity and ethical considerations. This study provides valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges associated with the use of Gen-AI tools in educational contexts.
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RecordInfo BibRecord:
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    Languages:
      – Text: English
    PhysicalDescription:
      Pagination:
        PageCount: 25
        StartPage: 531
    Subjects:
      – SubjectFull: Artificial Intelligence
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Active Learning
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Student Projects
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Models
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Creativity
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      – SubjectFull: Critical Thinking
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Foreign Countries
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Animation
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Technology Uses in Education
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      – SubjectFull: Computer Software
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Student Attitudes
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      – SubjectFull: Private Colleges
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      – SubjectFull: Malaysia
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      – TitleFull: Generative AI in Project-Based 3D Modeling: Effects on Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Workflow
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            NameFull: Shyu Wye Ee
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              Type: published
              Y: 2026
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