Exploring the Role of AI in UX Research

Challenges, Opportunities, and Educational Implications

Abstract

Presently, artificial intelligence (AI) is primarily utilized in user experience (UX) research for handling routine tasks like text conversion (e.g., transcription, survey preparation) to manage large volumes of data efficiently. However, its potential as a collaborative partner in generating ideas and insights remains largely untapped, possibly due to the limited AI education among UX researchers. There is a recognized need to enhance AI literacy among Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) students to effectively utilize AI tools in UX research for an AI-driven future. Despite its growing importance, the integration of AI literacy into HCI curricula remains insufficient. This study aims to explore AI’s potential in addressing current challenges in UX research and assess UX researchers’ readiness to adopt AI tools. Through in-depth interviews with five early-career UX researchers, it examined their experiences, challenges, and perspectives on integrating AI. Thematic analysis of the interview data uncovers insights, revealing that AI has significant potential to overcome challenges in collecting, interpreting, and synthesizing qualitative data, as well as in translating user needs into design concepts. The findings are intended to inform strategies for incorporating AI literacy into HCI education, aligning with industry demands for AI-enabled expertise in UX design.