Nature redux: interrogating biomorphism and soft robot aesthetics through generative AI

Conventional robots are constructed with rigid parts and materials, restricting their ability to deform freely and adapt to the external environment. Performing tasks such as handling delicate materials and navigating narrow pathways is challenging for these typical robots made of stiff materials. However, there is a growing demand for such functions in various industries. Recent advances in soft robotics have garnered considerable attention as solutions to these challenges. Soft robotic systems in various forms present a systematic solution for performing unique tasks. The goal of soft robotics research is to develop advanced technologies, incorporating innovative robotic mechanisms based on soft materials and structures to enhance adaptability. Soft robots find broad applications in diverse fields, including industry, healthcare, and field exploration. Soft component technology plays a crucial role in configuring soft robots. Soft actuators introduce new types of motion and operation mechanisms, while soft sensors measure the deformation of the actuators with a tiny stiffness change. These advancements in soft actuators and sensors encourage researchers to explore new robotic designs and applications. Additionally, the component technology enables the integration of soft and typical robots into hybrid B Youngsu Cha

In today’s evolving world of work, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged not merely as a technological tool but as a catalyst for rethinking how jobs are structured and performed (Bankins et al., 2024; Parker & Grote, 2022). Across diverse job families and organizational contexts, tools like generative AI (GAI) go beyond mere instruments for data analysis or structuring and can adopt increasingly far-reaching roles through rapid progress in generating new graphic or textual content or algorithmic decision making (Ferràs- Hernández, 2018; Walsh et al. 2019). Central to this symposium is the recognition that this changing nature of work due to digitalization, propelled by AI and related tools, calls for a fresh look at established theories of job design and strategies for human resource management. Traditionally, research has illuminated how fostering characteristics like autonomy, skill and task variety, or adequate demands affect employee motivation, satisfaction, and well-being and thereby further organizational outcomes (Oldham & Fried, 2016; Parker et al., 2017). Yet the introduction of AI – particularly generative AI – adds complexity: Who performs which tasks? How are decisions made, and by whom? Which skills remain uniquely human, and which may be augmented or even entirely adopted by AI? Such questions demand a more nuanced and strategic approach to designing work in the future that balances efficiency and innovation with psychological and ethical considerations. The four presentations in this symposium aim to contribute to theory building on how AI affects work in terms of work design, the interplay of employees and AI use, and work outcomes. In particular, they highlight potential risks or unique challenges when working with AI (e.g., in terms of less enriched work, lowered autonomy levels, threats to job identity or risks due to disclosure of use) and path the way for interventions to achieve benefits of such technologies at work. In detail, the empirical studies in this symposium illuminate these issues at three interconnected levels: 1. Task-Level Insights: Two contributions focus on the more granular task characteristics (e.g., autonomy, skill variety) in modern, AI-enhanced work contexts. They demonstrate how AI use influences the allocation of specific tasks when designing work roles and how the perception of task characteristics changes when AI is used in a decision-making task. 2. Job- and Identity-Level: One paper zooms out from individual tasks to jobs as a whole and explores how AI-driven change might disrupt employees’ job identity. This lens demonstrates how task changes cascade into bigger questions of role definition and identity. 3. Organizational Context: Finally, one presentation adopts the broadest perspective and investigates managerial and organizational factors that might shape employees’ willingness to disclose and ethically integrate AI tools. Taken together, these presentations point toward a future in which AI’s transformative potential hinges on thoughtful coordination across tasks, roles, and organizational systems. By combining established frameworks with new insights drawn from (quantitative and qualitative) surveys and experiments conducted in Germany, Austria, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, these contributions illustrate how AI can enrich, rather than diminish, work and thereby strengthen human-centered organizations. By focusing on variables at different levels, the studies path the way for applications in practice, emphasizing the importance of individual approaches (e.g., training for job design, supporting self-efficacy), or on the organizational level (e.g., aligning HR practices, develop clear and supportive organizational policies and guidelines for the use of AI at work). Investigating the Influence of Work Design Perspective and AI Integration on Enriched Job Design Author: Tanja Bipp; Heidelberg University Author: Thea Ebert; Aalen University Collaborative Intelligence: Integrating Generative AI in Knowledge Work and its Impact on Job Design Author: Sabina Hodzic; University of Graz Author: Simon Grob; University of Graz Author: Bettina Kubicek; University of Graz Job Identity as Starting Point for SHRM in AI-Driven Organizational Change Author: Sophie Berretta; Ruhr University Bochum Author: Annette Kluge; Ruhr University Bochum Silent Adoption: Understanding the Drivers of Non-Disclosure of Generative AI Tools by Employees Author: Fangfang Zhang; Curtin University - Perth

The imitation of the functions of soft animals has always been the goal of soft robotic design. However, most of the current soft terrestrial robots just imitate the basic gaits and are difficult to perform in three dimensional space. In this work, we present an inchworm-inspired soft robot that integrates the locomotion and manipulation functions together. The soft robot is able to move in the vertical plane from one pole to another or work as a soft manipulator. The two functions can switch between each other naturally. Besides, the soft robot is unfettered by gravity, which greatly expands the applications of the soft robot. The deformation and load capacities of the soft components were tested, and to enhance the stiffness of the whole soft robot, the rigid-frame reinforcement was used. The performance of the soft robot shows great potential of actual applications, such as spatial maintenance and agricultural picking. Most importantly, the combination of the locomotion and manipulation functions provides a new idea for designing more applicable soft robots.

Technologically advanced artificial intelligence (AI) is making a significant contribution to strengthening national security. AI algorithms facilitate the processing of vast amounts of information, increasing the speed and accuracy of decision-making. Artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) are crucial for state and integrated hybrid attacks and protecting new threats in cyberspace. Existing AI capabilities have significant potential to impact national security by leveraging existing machine learning technology for automation in labor-intensive activities such as satellite imagery analysis and defense against cyber attacks. This article examines selected aspects of the impact of artificial intelligence on enhancing a state’s ability to protect its interests and its citizens., artificial intelligence through the use of neutron networks, predictive analytics and machine learning algorithms enables security agencies to analyse vast amounts of data and identify patterns indicative of potential threats. Integrating artificial intelligence into surveillance, border control and threat assessment systems enhances the ability to respond preemptively to security challenges. In addition, artificial intelligence algorithms facilitate the processing of vast amounts of information, increasing the speed and accuracy of decision-making by police authorities. The rapid development of AI raises a number of questions for its use in securing not only national security but protecting all citizens. In particular, it is worth answering the question How does artificial intelligence affect national security and clarifying the issue of how law enforcement agencies can use artificial intelligence to maximise the benefits of the new technology in terms of security and protecting communities from rising crime. The analysis is based on a descriptive method in describing the phenomenon; by explaining the concepts and applications of artificial intelligence to determine its role in the national security sphere. An analysis of the usefulness of artificial intelligence in particular in police operations is undertaken, with the aim of defending the thesis that, despite some threats to the protection of human rights from AI, it is becoming the best tool in the fight against all types of crime in the country. Technological advances in AI can also have many positive effects for law enforcement, and useful for law enforcement agencies, for example in facilitating the identification of persons or vehicles, predicting trends in criminal activities, tracking illegal criminal activities or illegal money flows, flagging and responding to fake news. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the biggest threats to information security, but efforts are being made to mitigate this new threat, but also to find solutions on how AI can become an ally in the fight against cyber-security, crime and terrorist threats. Artificial intelligence algorithms search huge datasets of communication traffic, satellite images and social media posts to identify potential cyber security threats, terrorist activities and organized crime. It is advisable, when analyzing the opportunities and threats that AI poses to national and public security, to gain a strategic advantage in the context of rapid technological change and also to manage the many risks associated with AI. The conclusion highlights the impact of AI on national security, creating a range of new opportunities coupled with challenges that government agencies should be prepared for in addressing ethical and security dilemmas. Furthermore, AI improves predictive analytics, thereby enabling security agencies to more accurately anticipate potential threats and enhance their preparedness by identifying vulnerabilities in the national security infrastructure

BackgroundThere is a well‐known gender disparity in the engineering field. Three of the most important factors related to the participation of women in engineering are differences in perceived societal relevance, technical self‐efficacy, and tinkering self‐efficacy.Purpose/HypothesisSoft robotics is a relatively new engineering application with the potential to address these three factors. We investigated whether participation in a soft robotics design experience would improve students'—especially girls'—perceptions of engineering in contrast to a traditional, rigid robotics experience.Design/MethodSoft robotics curriculum materials were developed for high‐school engineering classes using design‐based research. Seven teachers delivered soft and rigid robotics lessons; then 293 students reported their perceptions of motivation, interest, and self‐efficacy following the lessons and retrospectively. We examined the relationship between gender and lesson type and differences in perceptions of engineering over time.ResultsThe soft and rigid robotics experiences promoted engineering interest and general, experimental, tinkering, and design self‐efficacy. Girls' perceptions of tinkering self‐efficacy particularly benefitted from the soft robotics lesson, mitigating gender differences. A robustness check compared the outcomes of different statistical models and verified the stability of the findings.ConclusionsSoft robot design experiences emphasize materiality and iterative design, which contribute to enhanced tinkering self‐efficacy. The use of soft robotics in education represents a promising opportunity to integrate authentic engineering experiences, broaden perceptions of engineering, and support the development of future engineers.

In recent years, generative artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology with the potential to revolutionize collaborative learning experiences. This study investigates the role of generative AI in facilitating innovative collaboration among Saudi university students engaged in group projects within digital learning environments. As higher education institutions increasingly adopt digital tools and platforms, understanding how generative AI can enhance creativity, teamwork, and overall learning outcomes becomes paramount.Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this research employs a comprehensive questionnaire distributed to a diverse sample of Saudi university students. The questionnaire is designed to assess participants’ experiences with generative AI tools, their perceptions of these tools' effectiveness in enhancing collaboration, and the impact on their creativity and problem-solving abilities during group projects. The survey includes both closed-ended questions for quantitative analysis and open-ended questions for qualitative insights, allowing for a nuanced exploration of the role of generative AI in educational settings.The findings reveal that a significant majority of participants (approximately 78%) reported that generative AI tools, such as AI-driven brainstorming applications and collaborative writing platforms, have had a positive influence on their group project experiences. Students highlighted that these tools fostered a more inclusive environment, enabling team members to contribute ideas more freely and creatively. Moreover, 65% of respondents noted improved communication and coordination among team members, attributing this enhancement to the real-time collaborative features provided by generative AI tools.Additionally, qualitative feedback from open-ended questions indicated that students appreciated the ability of generative AI to generate diverse perspectives and ideas, which enriched the brainstorming process and led to more innovative project outcomes. Participants expressed that the use of AI tools reduced the cognitive load associated with project management, allowing them to focus more on creative problem-solving and critical thinking. However, some concerns were raised regarding the potential for over-reliance on AI-generated content, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that combines human creativity with AI assistance.This study contributes to the growing body of literature on the integration of artificial intelligence in education, particularly in the context of collaborative learning. The implications of these findings suggest that incorporating generative AI tools into the curriculum can significantly enhance the collaborative capabilities of Saudi university students, fostering a culture of innovation and creativity in digital learning environments. As educational institutions continue to navigate the complexities of digital transformation, understanding the potential of generative AI as a catalyst for collaboration will be essential for fostering effective and engaging learning experiences.In conclusion, this research highlights the transformative potential of generative AI in enhancing group projects among Saudi students, offering valuable insights for educators and policymakers aiming to leverage technology for improved collaborative learning outcomes.

Focusing on the generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools using large language models, the present research explores the individual factors impacting the low-income Koreans’ attitudes toward generative AI tools utilized to search for information (e.g., ChatGPT, Google Gemini, etc.). Specifically, we first examine whether low-income Korean individuals’ prior AI experience, perceived usefulness of AI, and general attitude toward AI influence their attitudes toward generative AI tools (RQ1). Second, we examine whether the prior AI experience affects the attitude toward generative AI tools via the perceived usefulness of AI (RQ2). Third, we examine whether the prior AI experience influences the attitude toward generative AI tools via the general attitude toward AI (RQ3). Fourth, we examine whether the relationship between prior AI experience and attitude toward generative AI tools is serially mediated by the perceived usefulness of AI and general attitude toward AI (RQ4). To answer the research questions, we conducted a hierarchical multiple regression analysis and a mediation analysis using the low-income Koreans who were aware of the generative AI tools (n = 770). The results indicate that (1) both the perceived usefulness of AI and general attitude toward AI are positively associated with the attitude toward generative AI tools; (2) the perceived usefulness of AI mediates the relationship between the prior AI experience and the attitude toward generative AI tools; (3) the indirect effect of prior AI experience on the attitude toward generative AI tools, via the general attitude toward AI, is not statistically significant; and (4) the prior AI experience influences the attitude toward generative AI tools through a sequential process of the perceived usefulness of AI and general attitude toward AI. The findings provide important implications to enhance the attitude toward generative AI tools.

Teacher education students play double role as present learners and future educators. Hence, they need targeted training to navigate the growing influence of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) on teaching, learning and professional identity. However, existing artificial intelligence (AI) literacy programmes predominantly emphasize technical AI knowledge and pre‐GenAI tools or are offered by GenAI platforms that focus on their own technologies' features, thereby lacking pedagogically structured frameworks that address non‐technical dimensions such as ethics, contextual understanding and the development of human‐centered, critical and lifelong learning mindsets to adapt to rapid technology changes. Furthermore, limitation of time in teacher education syllabus and faculty's lack of AI literacy require targeted intervention. This design‐based research (DBR) aims to fill this gap by developing and evaluating a set of design principles for GenAI literacy training in teacher education. Integrating contemporary AI competency frameworks for learners and teachers, the study implements these principles in a workshop that serves as the research prototype. The prototype was first piloted with 14 master's students and then evaluated with 29 teacher education (TE) students. Results show significant gains in participants' AI competence self‐efficacy, attitudes towards GenAI and commitment to critical, ethical and pedagogical engagement with GenAI tools. The findings highlight the need for teacher education programmes to integrate GenAI literacy that supports teachers' evolving roles as reflective practitioners, co‐creators and lifelong learners in an AI‐driven world. Practitioner notes What is already known about this topic Students' self‐efficacy and mindset influence their adoption of GenAI in learning and teaching. GenAI competency is essential for teacher education students, encompassing technological, ethical and sociocultural dimensions. Implementing AI literacy training faces challenges such as educators' limited AI literacy, the lack of pedagogical frameworks and the need to integrate technical knowledge with ethical reasoning, self‐regulated learning and metacognitive skills. Transformative learning is crucial in preparing teacher education students as co‐creators and facilitators in AI‐enhanced education. What this paper adds This study presents the design and evaluation of an AI competency training programme to enhance teacher education students' self‐efficacy, critical and human‐centered AI mindsets and human–AI interaction skills. Using design‐based research, it identifies key principles for AI literacy training, demonstrating how transformative, active and experiential learning approaches can prepare teacher education students for evolving roles in AI‐enhanced education. Implications for practice and/or policy Educational technologists can apply the proposed design principles to develop GenAI tools and AI systems that enhance AI competency and self‐regulated learning (SRL). Educators can integrate these AI training principles into their teaching strategies and enhance their task assignments and assessments to foster deep learning, self‐regulated learning and metacognitive skills in the age of GenAI. Policymakers should update teacher education curriculum to include AI competency, strengthen content and pedagogical knowledge, especially in social emotional learning, formative and authentic assessment methods and establish guidelines for selecting GenAI tools that support human intelligence and mitigate over‐reliance.

Vertebrate animals benefit from a combination of rigidity for structural support and softness for adaptation. Similarly, integrating rigidity and softness can enhance the versatility of soft robotics. However, the challenges associated with creating durable bonding interfaces between soft and rigid materials have limited the development of hybrid robots. Existing solutions require specialized machinery, such as polyjet 3D printers, which are not commonly available. In response to these challenges, we have developed a 3D printing technique that can be used with almost all commercially available FDM printers. This technique leverages the common issue of underextrusion to create a strong bond between soft and rigid materials. Underextrusion generates a porous structure, similar to fibrous connective tissues, that provides a robust interface with the rigid part through layer fusion, while the porosity enables interlocking with the soft material. Our experiments demonstrated that this method outperforms conventional adhesives commonly used in soft robotics, achieving nearly 200% of the bonding strength in both lap shear and peeling tests. Additionally, we investigated how different porosity levels affect bonding strength. We tested the technique under pressure scenarios critical to soft and hybrid robots and achieved three times more pressure than the current adhesion solution. Finally, we fabricated various hybrid robots using this technique to demonstrate the wide range of capabilities this approach and hybridity can bring to soft robotics.

Purpose This conceptual paper examines what underlies decision-making in generative change processes to explore how generative artificial intelligence (GAI) might shape the future of organisational change. Design/methodology/approach This investigation draws on Snowden and Stanbridge's (2004) social complexity concept, Archer's (1995) morphogenetic/morphostatic explanatory methodology and Mackenzie and Bititci's (2023) social systems-based model for organisational change to explain how structure, culture and agency influence generative change processes in complex adaptive social systems. Findings Both human-based decision-making and machine-based decision-making have roles to play in generative change. This paper proposes that human reflexivity mediates ideas, whereas the material aspects of artificial intelligence (AI) and GAI mediate tasks. The former shapes the change interventions that take place and the latter contributes to their more effective execution. Practical implications In generative change processes, AI and GAI technologies should be focused on tasks that support human-based decision-making. Originality/value This paper explores decision-making in organisational change from a social complexity perspective and identifies the complementary roles of human reflexivity and AI and GAI materiality in delivering emergent outcomes.

Generative artificial intelligence in dentistry: A narrative review of current approaches and future challenges

Background: Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly large language models like ChatGPT, has rapidly entered medical education. In pharmacology instruction within MBBS programs, these AI tools offer novel educational benefitsfrom ondemand tutoring to personalized learningbut also pose risks due to "hallucinations, " i. e., AI -generated misinformation. Objective: This review explores how generative AI is being integrated into pharmacology education, the educational advantages it provides, the nature and causes of AI hallucinations, and the potential risks of relying on inaccurate AI -generated content in medical learning. Mitigation strategies, best practices, case examples, ethical considerations, and future directions are discussed to inform balanced and safe use. Methods: A literature review was conducted focusing on recent (2020-2025) peer -reviewed sources and authoritative reports on generative AI in medical and pharmacology education. Results: Generative AI can enhance pharmacology education through adaptive learning, rapid information access, and interactive simulations, which students have found useful for studying and clinical preparation. However, AI hallucinationsplausible -sounding yet incorrect answersare common, with studies reporting a substantial fraction of AI -generated medical responses containing errors. These inaccuracies can mislead learners and threaten patient safety if not recognized. Strategies such as careful validation of AI -provided information, AI literacy training, and technical approaches (e. g. retrieval -augmented generation) are identified to mitigate risks. Conclusions: Generative AI holds significant promise in medical pharmacology education by augmenting learning and engagement. Yet, educators and students must remain vigilant about AI hallucinations. A balanced approachleveraging AI's benefits while implementing safeguards and ethical guidelinesis essential to ensure that AI becomes a reliable adjunct in pharmacology education rather than a source of misinformation. Ongoing research, policy development, and training are needed to fully realize generative AI's potential in medical education while minimizing its risks.

In the dynamic field of programming education, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) tools has started to play a significant role in enhancing learning experiences. This paper presents a case study conducted during a foundational programming course for first-year students in higher education, where students were encouraged to utilize generative artificial intelligence programming copilot extensions in their programming IDE and browser-based generative AI tools as supportive AI tools. The primary objective was to observe the impact of AI on the learning curve and the overall educational experience.Key findings suggest that the introduction of AI tools significantly altered the learning experience for students. Many who initially struggled with grasping elementary programming concepts found that AI support made understanding basic programming concepts much easier, enhancing their confidence and skills. This was particularly evident in the reduced levels of anxiety typically associated with early programming learning, as the AI copilot provided a non-judgmental, always-available source for clarifying doubts, including queries that students might hesitate to ask in a traditional classroom setting.Notably, some students leveraged the AI to generate similar exercise problems, reinforcing their understanding and skills. The AI's capability to address basic queries also freed up the instructor's time, allowing for more personalized student guidance in more advanced problems. This shift in the instructional dynamic further contributed to a learning environment where students felt more comfortable engaging with complex topics, thereby reducing the psychological barriers often linked with early-stage programming education.The course's structure, enriched by AI, enabled students to delve into more complex programming constructs earlier than traditional curricula would allow. For instance, students were tasked with simulating basic e-commerce operations, such as user registration, product browsing, and cart functionalities. These practical challenges naturally introduced advanced concepts like external data storage, unit testing, and user interface design, which are typically reserved for more advanced courses. With the help of generative AI programming copilot tools, students at any programming skill level were able to develop nearly functional complex structures. Interestingly, even when their projects were not fully functional, students remained motivated. Instead of feeling discouraged by these imperfect outcomes, they showed resilience and a keen interest in understanding and improving their code. This reaction is a significant shift from traditional learning settings, where unfinished or flawed projects often lead to increased anxiety or a drop in motivation.Furthermore, the AI's proactive suggestions inspired students to explore beyond the curriculum. Advanced learners delved into databases, cryptography libraries in Python, and even more advanced user interface design, ensuring that they remained engaged and challenged. This elementary course, enhanced by generative AI tools, also inspired students to learn other programming languages since they now learned that individual learning is more available with the aid of generative AI.In conclusion, the integration of AI in programming education offers a promising avenue for enhancing both the learning experience and outcomes. This case study underscores the potential of AI to revolutionize traditional teaching methodologies, fostering a more dynamic, responsive, and inclusive learning environment.This paper handles the results, possibilities and challenges of AI empowered education in programming. It also gives practical examples as well as future research perspectives.

Purpose: This analysis aims to propose guidelines for artificial intelligence (AI) research ethics in scientific publications, intending to inform publishers and academic institutional policies in order to guide them toward a coherent and consistent approach to AI research ethics.Methods: A literature-based thematic analysis was conducted. The study reviewed the publication policies of the top 10 journal publishers addressing the use of AI in scholarly publications as of October 2024. Thematic analysis using Atlas.ti identified themes and subthemes across the documents, which were consolidated into proposed research ethics guidelines for using generative AI and AI-assisted tools in scholarly publications.Results: The analysis revealed inconsistencies among publishers’ policies on AI use in research and publications. AI-assisted tools for grammar and formatting are generally accepted, but positions vary regarding generative AI tools used in pre-writing and research methods. Key themes identified include author accountability, human oversight, recognized and unrecognized uses of AI tools, and the necessity for transparency in disclosing AI usage. All publishers agree that AI tools cannot be listed as authors. Concerns involve biases, quality and reliability issues, compliance with intellectual property rights, and limitations of AI detection tools.Conclusion: The article highlights the significant knowledge gap and inconsistencies in guidelines for AI use in scientific research. There is an urgent need for unified ethical standards, and guidelines are proposed for distinguishing between the accepted use of AI-assisted tools and the cautious use of generative AI tools.

Artificial General Intelligence is the idea that someday an hypothetical agent will arise from artificial intelligence (AI) progresses, and will surpass by far the brightest and most gifted human minds. This idea has been around since the early development of AI. Since then, scenarios on how such AI may behave towards humans have been the subject of many fictional and research works. This paper analyzes the current state of artificial intelligence progresses, and how the current AI race with the ever faster release of impressive new AI methods (that can deceive humans, outperform them at tasks we thought impossible to tackle by AI a mere decade ago, and that disrupt the job market) have raised concerns that Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) might be coming faster that we thought. In particular, we focus on 3 specific families of modern AIs to develop the idea that deep neural networks, which are the current backbone of nearly all artificial intelligence methods, are poor candidates for any AGI to arise due to their many limitations, and therefore that any threat coming from the recent AI race does not lie in AGI but in the limitations, uses, and lack of regulations of our current models and algorithms. This article appears in the AI & Society track.