Students from The Creative School explore artificial intelligence and technology in the UK

At The Creative School, students have access to a diverse portfolio of international activities and learning opportunities including short-term travel intensives. These extraordinary programs are designed to immerse students in the creative culture of different countries.

Front and centre in the lineup is FCD 580 - Project in Creative Technology. The course focuses on creative artificial intelligence (AI) — a hot topic in today’s creative world. Taking place in London, United Kingdom (UK), students earn a credit during their two-week exploration of creativity and innovation. 

The real magic is in the stories of those who have already experienced it. Hear from fourth-year RTA Media Production student Grace Sun as she shares her top five thrilling takeaways from her experience this past summer.

1. The people make the program special

The course was facilitated by Professor Jonathon Anderson, who you might see on-campus teaching Interior Design or running The Creative School’s Design + Technology LAB in the Daphne Cockwell Complex (DCC). Alexa Pavliuc, a Professional Communication graduate, is part of The Creative School’s International team and was our UK hub lead. 

These two individuals are rooted within The Creative School community, but also have made homes in London – immersing themselves in the culture, academia and creative technology industry in the city. Both heavily passionate about their work and the city, they made the best guides and teachers for the intensive. Whether you wanted advice on creative projects, academic or professional matters, or discussed ethical ideas, Anderson and Pavliuc were enthusiastic about helping you reach your goals.

We had a cohort of 32 students. Our professor ensured that all programs within The Creative School were represented. Each student was eager to share their personal background and skills, providing the opportunity for us all to learn from each other. The diversity gave us a multitude of perspectives in our conversations, and created final projects ranging from fashion designs to short films.

2. Independence in study

Another reason I thoroughly enjoyed the course was the independence we were allowed within our studies. We were encouraged to explore London and artificial intelligence (AI) as it related to our specific programs.

As an RTA student focused on narratives and perspectives, I thought AI was a great tool to help you imagine a perspective different from your own. Using MidJourney and DALLE-2, I decided to reimagine famous London landmarks through the eyes of a child.

On an average day, we often had lectures and group discussions in the morning, and self directed travel through London in the afternoon. For my project, I was able to use the time to visit places like the Natural History Museum and the Home Museum, which both reflected London through a multitude of perspectives, past and present. I really enjoyed being able to tailor my itinerary in a way that reflected my academic interests and scope.

Our evenings and weekends were filled with free time. This is where we explored our interests - like nightlife, theatre or even neighbouring cities like Dublin, Ireland!

3. The location

With the United Kingdom government actively doing research and funding grants for the advancement of AI, London was the perfect backdrop for our course to explore emerging technologies. The guest lectures were consistently intriguing, providing us with new ideas and concepts to discuss. 

Our location with the University of Westminster also allowed us to be close to the London core, giving us access to the trending and innovative experiences available in the city. Some unique places we explored included the Design Museum, where we saw the “Offbeat Sari (external link) ” exhibit, and Hooke Park (external link) , an architecture school nestled in the countryside where students built all the buildings!

4. Approaching new creative technology

AI technology is developing rapidly, creating a lot of questions about the future of this technology in the creative fields. Upon entering the course, I was intimidated by the overwhelming possibilities of AI. This technology can change so much: how can it ethically fit into our academic, professional and personal lives? How will this technology be utilized? How do we protect it from human bias? Through a creative lens, we ask, is it art? Rather than being afraid or shying away from AI, we tackled it head-on in the course. Our lectures focused on this topic and had nuanced conversations as future professionals from many different creative industries. 

Throughout the course, I developed an appreciation for how complex emerging technology is. I feel equipped to explore any future technologies I may encounter as a professional, even after my graduation from The Creative School. I know I will be able to view it from multiple perspectives, question its ethics and capabilities, and confidently decide how it will fit in with my creative practice and talents. It’s a very useful tool for an industry that’s always evolving and changing!

5. Benefits of the intensive format

The intensive format of the course was incredibly conducive to exploring a new technology like AI. This course was my first experience using AI and exploring new programs and software felt daunting. However, being able to focus and immerse myself in AI during the guided two weeks allowed me to explore the technology in depth.

By the end of the intensive, I had delved into brand new technology, made lifelong friends, and explored a new city through an academic lens. With its intensive nature and exceptional backdrop, the experience enhanced my academic career. All in all, if you’re looking for a short-term international opportunity, I’d highly recommend checking out travel intensives!

Interested in travelling for an immersive trip to London, United Kingdom, in the summer of 2024? Sign up for the  (google form) London 2024 info session (external link)  to learn more.

The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University

The Creative School is a dynamic faculty that is making a difference in new, unexplored ways. Made up of Canada’s top professional schools and transdisciplinary hubs in media, communication, design and cultural industries, The Creative School offers students an unparalleled global experience in the heart of downtown Toronto.